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Rooftop solar is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. However, there are several myths surrounding rooftop solar that can make it difficult to separate fact from fiction.
Myth: Solar panels on your rooftop are too expensive.
Fact: While it's true that rooftop solar was once a costly investment, the cost of solar panels has decreased significantly over the past decade. The central government of India has introduced subsidies for residential rooftop solar in India, making it a lucrative investment for the residential segment. Additionally, many states offer incentives and tax credits for installing solar panels, which can further reduce the cost. Rooftop solar is now more affordable than ever before. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), India offered the world’s second cheapest solar power, at $0.035/kWh (Rs. 2.9/kWh) after China in 2022.
Myth: Solar panels require a lot of maintenance.
Fact: Solar panels require very little maintenance, as they have no moving parts and are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, they need to be maintained regularly else the efficiency of the panel and hence the output will be reduced over time. Periodic cleaning to remove debris and dust is typically all that is needed. Now, the government has mandated all solar installers to provide consumers with a 5-year free maintenance contract. Additionally, most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer warranties that cover any necessary repairs or replacements.
Myth: Solar panels only work in sunny climates.
Fact: Solar panels can still generate electricity in non-sunny conditions, such as on cloudy days or during winter months when there is less sunlight. While it is true that solar panels work most efficiently in direct sunlight, they can still generate a significant amount of energy even on cloudy or overcast days.
Myth: Solar panels will damage my roof.
Fact: Properly installed solar panels will not damage your roof. They can protect your roof by acting as an additional layer of insulation and reducing the amount of direct sunlight and weather exposure. Most solar panel installation companies conduct a structural analysis of your roof before installation to ensure that it can support the weight of the panels. Proper installation by a trusted company should not cause any damage to your roof.
Myth: Solar panels are not reliable.
Fact: Solar panels have a proven track record of reliability and can last for decades with little maintenance. Most solar panels come with a warranty of 25 years or more, and many continue to generate electricity long after their warranty period has expired. Additionally, solar panels do not have any moving parts that can wear out or break down, making them more reliable than many other types of energy systems. It is important to note that the amount of electricity generated by solar panels can be affected by factors such as weather conditions, shading, and panel orientation. However, these factors can be mitigated by proper installation and maintenance of the panels. Overall, solar panels are a reliable and long-lasting source of renewable energy.
Myth: Solar panels are difficult to install.
Fact: Solar panel installation can be done by a professional in just a few days, depending on the size of the system. The installation process typically involves mounting the panels on the roof or the mounting structure, connecting them to the electrical grid, and obtaining necessary permits and inspections. The physical installation of the solar panel is a matter of hours, but the necessary permissions and net metering take 2-3 weeks. Most reputable solar panel installation companies will handle the entire process for you, making it a hassle-free experience.
Myth: Solar panels require a lot of space on your rooftop.
Fact: Solar panels come in various sizes and shapes, and can be customized to fit almost any rooftop. Solar panels can be mounted on the ground or a nearby structure if your roof is not suitable for installation. If you wish to use your rooftop for other purposes like gardening, drying clothes, etc. the solar panels can be installed on an elevated structure.
Myth: Rooftop solar is only worth it if you live in a sunny area.
Fact: While solar panels do produce more energy in areas with high levels of sunlight, they can still be a cost-effective solution in areas with less sun. In fact, in areas that receive excessive heat, the solar panel efficiency reduces due to heating. The best climate for solar panels is ample sunlight, low heat, and no dust or pollution in the air.
Myth: Home appliances need to be changed to run on solar power
Fact: There is no need to change home appliances. The solar inverter installed for your rooftop system converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated from the panel into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used to power home appliances or be fed into the electrical grid. It ensures that the electricity is usable and keeps all appliances safe.
Myth: Air conditioners and EVs cannot run on rooftop solar power
Fact: Depending on the rooftop solar capacity, homeowners can run any number of appliances including charging their electric vehicles. The solar installer will assess your current and future energy needs and recommend a system size suitable for your home. As the solar system is modular, you can always add more panels to your system if your energy requirements increase in the future and provided you have the required space on your rooftop.
Myth: I will get disconnected from my main grid if I install solar for my home
Fact: An on-grid rooftop solar system is a facility where the consumer is connected to the grid. The rooftop solar system generates electricity for the home during the daytime and at night when the system does not function, the consumer can draw the required electricity from the main grid. In addition, if the rooftop solar generates more electricity than required, it is fed into the grid and the consumer can get paid by their DISCOM/ energy provider for this exported electricity.
Rooftop solar is a flexible and effective solution for homeowners looking to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. By separating myth from fact, you can make an informed decision about whether rooftop solar is right for your home.
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