As clean energy solutions become more and more popular across the US, many Americans find themselves with questions about “going solar” and whether technology that can help them achieve energy independence is really worth the perceived investment and hassle. There is a lot of noise out there about solar technology and costs so OneRoof Energy took a look at some of the most common misconceptions and addressed the biggest “solar myths” being discussed by naysayers.
1. “Zero down” is a sham
Many potential solar customers worry that attractive options to put zero money down for their installation as a mere “bait and switch” gimmick – a way for companies to pull customers in, and then charge more in fees and monthly payments down the road. In reality, if customers qualify for zero-down they gain more flexibility with their payment plan options and start saving money off of their electric bills from day one. The numbers speak for themselves- last year more than 75% of all solar installations in California and 50% nationally were the direct result of a lease or PPA (Power Purchase Agreement). If you choose to bypass zero down and make initial payments, that’s fine too. The most important decision to make when financing solar is choosing the best payment route for you and your family. Zero down or not, it’s your choice.
2. Solar hurts the US economy.
The solar industry employs more than 119,000 Americans, and it continues to be one of the fastest growing industries. According to the Solar Foundation’s 2012 report, there are more solar workers nationwide than there are ranchers in Texas or actors in California.
3. If I get solar installed, I won’t be able to sell my house.
Just the opposite, in fact. The National Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory found in an eight-year study that solar-powered homes sold for a premium over comparable homes with traditional power and that prospective buyers consider energy costs an extremely important factor in the decision to buy a home. Additionally, solar installations can increase the value of your home by protecting your roof from normal wear-and-tear over time.
4. Solar energy doesn’t work in bad weather.
False. Solar panels continue to work in less-than-ideal weather conditions – be it cloudy days, harsh climates or even at night. Their efficiency rate is reduced, as to be expected when compared to sunny days, but solar technology allows us to continue generating power that can be fueled back to the electricity grid and redistributed later.
5. Solar will get cheaper, so it’s better to wait.
While there’s no denying that continued innovation in solar panel materials and the rise of flexible financing models has helped decrease solar costs, the truth is that waiting to install solar is not better. Why? Because you’re missing out on the 10%-30% savings on you electricity bills each month. When you weigh cost-savings against the initial out-of-pocket expenses associated with installing a system, waiting to go solar when it’s “cheaper” means missing out on extra spending money.
Do you have questions about solar energy? Contact our solar experts at OneRoof Energy, they can answer your questions about any of the solar myths we discussed or any other concerns you have about going solar.