Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as a way to power homes and businesses. It's no wonder that household demand for rooftop PV systems and residential batteries continues to rise. However, along with the enthusiasm for solar comes some common misconceptions that need to be addressed otherwise, they may deter people from switching to solar. This blog post will debunk some of these myths and shed light on the truth about solar energy.
Self-Sufficiency Is the Goal
One common myth is the promise of complete self-sufficiency with PV systems and batteries. While solar panels and home batteries are undeniably powerful, in most cases, they can't cover all of a household's electricity needs. The degree of self-sufficiency achievable typically ranges from 25% to 90%, depending on factors like how much the client is willing to invest into their power needs, their power consumption patterns and whether the system will incorporate batteries.
Most of our installations are grid-tied meaning that they are designed to offset grid-power deficits whilst providing significant backup power. Their size would be dependent on the size of the grid-power deficit and the required backup power or the net power capacity of the appliances that will use the system in the absence of grid power. Most of our installations are designed to power basic appliances in the absence of grid power.
Solar Panels Are Only Worthwhile with Batteries
Some homeowners believe that solar panels are only financially beneficial when paired with a battery. While there's a lot of truth to it, it isn't entirely accurate. A photovoltaic system can be financially viable even without storage.
All our installations incorporate batteries with the goal of maximizing self-consumption, that is, to keep the system running in the absence of sunlight at night, during cloudy weather, etc. In this case, the presence of grid power can help power provide the deficit.
The decision to add a battery takes into consideration factors like home consumption patterns, availability of sunlight and electricity costs. Homeowners can assess their self-consumption levels without batteries and compare the benefits of higher self-consumption achieved through battery storage with actual electricity costs.
Plug-In Home Solar System Can Power Household Appliances
For those without rooftops suitable for PV installations, plug-in solar devices that can be placed on balconies or outside, may seem like an attractive option. However, it's essential to set realistic expectations. These panels are ideal for covering the household's baseload, such as charging cell phones and providing lightning.
For those hoping to run power-hungry appliances like decoders and LED televisions, should expect to be disappointed might be disappointed. These devices often require more power than plug-in solar modules can provide, and additional energy will be sourced from the grid. Also, solar home systems cannot be scaled by the addition of new panels or components.
Solar Panels Only Work in Direct Sunlight
This is not true at least not for the more advanced solar panel technologies. Solar panels, even the least sophisticated ones can still generate electricity on cloudy days, although the output will be reduced. In fact, solar panels can even generate electricity in low-light conditions, such as at dawn and dusk. This ability is stronger with panels made with even more sophisticated cells.
Solar Panels are too Expensive
The cost of solar panels has fallen dramatically in recent years, and they are now more affordable than ever before. In fact, many homeowners can save money on their electricity bills by installing solar panels. The real problem here for most Nigerian buyers is the volatile nature of the exchange rates and the economy at large. All other things taken into consideration, solar panels have become more affordable than ever.
Solar Panels Require a lot of Maintenance
Solar panels are very low-maintenance. They do not have any moving parts, so there is very little to go wrong. In most cases, all that is required is to clean the panels once or twice a year.
Solar Panels are not Reliable.
Solar panels are very reliable. They have a lifespan of 25-30 years, and the best brands are backed by a long-term warranty. There are however fake solar panels in the market; they can create financial headaches for buyers. But the best brands are very reliable and buyers can rest assured that they would last them for up to 25 years.
Solar Panels will Damage your Roof.
Solar panels are installed using a racking system that does not damage the roof. They are not weldered, soldered or hammered as they contain delicate parts that would be destroyed in the process. Solar mounting systems are a metal structures or parts that are used to secure solar panels to structures. Since majority of solar panels are manufactured to be installed on rooftops, solar mounting systems are metal parts that are used to secure solar panels to rooftops in most cases. They are often an integral part of the entire solar electricity system design for retrofitting onto rooftops. Solar mounts account for an insignificant percentage of the design budget of a typical solar system but of course, they are absolutely indispensable.
In the world of solar energy, separating fact from fiction is crucial to making informed decisions. By dispelling these myths and gaining a clearer understanding of solar's capabilities and limitations, homeowners can harness the true potential of solar power and make more informed choices about their energy needs. Solar energy remains a powerful tool for sustainability and energy savings, and dispelling these myths helps us embrace it even more effectively.
SolarKobo helps its clients in Lagos and elsewhere in Nigeria make the best possible choice of all solar products including solar panels, batteries and charge controllers that meet their peculiar power needs and fits their budgets. We also have university-trained engineers who provide the best possible installation services on order.