Solar panel myth busting

With energy prices on the rise, there’s never been a better time to consider adding solar panels to your home. But there are still a few myths floating about out there that may be causing some uncertainty. We’re here to bust those myths and help you decide whether solar power could be the solution for you.

My roof needs to be south-facing

Whilst a south-facing roof is an ideal scenario for maximum power generation, it is not essential. South-west and south-east facing roofs also have high power generation. Roofs that face east or west will lose approximately 15% efficiency in comparison to south-facing roofs (Greenerenergygroup.co.uk).

There's not enough sunshine in the UK

It doesn't always feel like it, but the UK is actually sunny enough for solar panels to work really well. The general rule of thumb is 'the sunnier the better', but solar panels will still generate power even on cloudy days.

Solar can only provide power when there's daylight

This one in itself is true; solar panels only generate electricity during daylight hours. However, you can add a battery storage solution to your system to store excess power produced during the day and use it at night. This is a super beneficial solution for the winter months when there’s fewer daylight hours, so your battery system can be used as a mechanism to offset this.

I'll need to get planning permission or consent from my local council for solar panels

Most of the time, this won't be necessary unless you live in a listed building, or your house is located in a conservation area or an area of natural beauty. If your neighbours have solar panels on their homes, it’s a good indication that you won’t need any special permissions.

It's not that beneficial for the environment

A solar system will reduce your reliance on oil and gas, which are really harmful for the environment. For instance, if you have 12 panels on your roof, you could save roughly 930 kg of CO2 emissions over the course of a year, which is the equivalent of 43 trees!

Solar technology isn't reliable

Solar panels have come a long way since they first started being manufactured. A decade ago installers were fitting 170 watt panels. Now the output has significantly increased. Egg are even installing some panels reaching up to 500w watt.

I heard it takes 20 years for solar to pay back, is that right?

Solar panels are getting increasingly more efficient and with this comes a much improved payback time. We tend to give the 10 years mark, but this will reduce even further with more panels and battery storage. The payback is also continuing to reduce with the increasing cost of electricity, so it’s never been a better time to produce your own.

Solar panels will damage my roof

Not with our expert installers and as long as your roof is in decent condition! No major holes are drilled so you can expect your existing roof to stay nicely intact. An Egg installation also includes a two-year Workmanship Warranty which means we’ll repair any damage in that period on the area of roof that is covered by the panels. What’s more, having solar panels can actually protect your roof from the likes of bad weather, so it’s an added bonus of going solar!

The advantages of solar panels for your home are plain to see. If solar panels have been part of your consideration for your home, maybe it’s time to make the switch.

Start your journey to clean energy today. Get a quote for your installation now.