When it comes to solar power technology, there are some myths chucked around that don’t necessarily hold any merit. Solar panels have a reputation for being highly expensive, sun-dependent and roof-damaging, however the technology has greatly advanced in recent years. Here, we explain the common misconceptions attached to solar power.

Solar panels need sun

It’s a general consensus that solar panels need the sun to work efficiently. Although solar panels will work better under sunny conditions, they will work regardless of cloudy skies. You will still generate enough energy to keep your house running, whether it’s sunny or cloudy, especially as solar panels are generally used alongside the national grid’s power.

Solar panels are too expensive

When solar panel technology was first used, more than 100 years ago, it was very expensive. But the cost has reduced massively in the last decade, meaning they are much more affordable and no longer a luxury expense.

The government’s Feed-In Tariff (or FIT scheme) means you can earn money for owning solar panels, and doing your part for the environment. If you generate too much energy for your household’s needs, you can even sell it back the national grid, allowing you several opportunities to earn your money back.

Alongside this, you will be saving money on your home energy bills, reducing your general house expenses. It’s estimated that you will break even on solar panels within ten years, making them a wise investment for home owners.

Solar panels mean you can’t switch energy provider

Feed-in Tariffs are not linked to any energy provider, it’s a fixed cost from the government dependent on the energy you generate. So you are still welcome to switch energy companies to find the best energy deal for your household.

Solar panels can damage your roof

Roof damage is only caused by solar panels when your installer is not fitting them properly. Professional solar panel fitters use tiles that are simple and easy to install, causing no damage to your roof at all. In fact, solar panels can act as an extra layer of protection for your roof and guard against harmful UV light, heat and bad weather conditions.

Metrotile are BBA certified, and our products can even be found on the NBS National BIM Library. We have years of experience in fitting cost-effective photovoltaic roof tiles, to the highest quality. For more information on our solar panels, please give us a call on 01249 658 514 or you can fill in a contact form and we will get back to you.