This Solar Energy Research & Education fact proves that the power generating capabilities of the sun are real. Solar energy even works in climates where you think it may not make sense like the Northeast. Here are some common myths surrounding solar power and the associated realities.
MYTH |
Solar energy works well only in warm, sunny climates. |
REALITY |
Solar energy systems can work efficiently and cost-effectively in most parts of the U. S., even in the Northeast. In fact, our commercial and residential installations are powering hundreds of homes and businesses in the Northeast all year long. It is interesting to note that Germany is one of the leading countries in the world for solar installations and receives less annual sunshine than the Northeast corridor of the U.S. |
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MYTH |
Solar power is too costly. |
REALITY |
Not any more. There has never been a better time for businesses or homeowners to invest in solar. It has become a really smart investment that allows you to be both green and financially savvy. The very generous federal, state, and in some cases local incentives and rebates combined with the drop in panel costs can cut the cost of going solar by at least 50% - in many instances even more! |
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MYTH |
Solar power is not as reliable as conventional energy technologies. |
REALITY |
Solar is often more reliable than any other energy source and manufacturer’s warranties extend up to 25 years. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has found photovoltaics to be the most reliable source of electric power ever invented. Solar technologies are used to power warning signals, navigational buoys, aircraft warning lights and railroad crossing signals because of their high reliability. |
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MYTH |
Solar power is not practical in urban areas. |
REALITY |
We have designed solar systems specifically for small roofs. In fact, we have done installations on New York City brownstones. We like to install on at least 200 usable square feet. Solar hot water is usually an economical replacement for electric heaters in any urban setting. |
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MYTH |
Solar power is unattractive and will reduce my resale value. |
REALITY |
Sunpower has new all black solar panels that blend in beautifully on most residential roofs, and have actually proven to increase your resale value, based on research from the Appraisal Institute. Mercury is a SunPower Premier Dealer and is focused on designing and installing the most aesthetically appealing solar panels available. |
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MYTH |
Snow in the Northeast has a significant effect on solar output. |
REALITY |
While it is true that heavy snowfall can affect the performance of a system, snow tends to melt off solar panels quickly, especially those installed at an angle. In fact, solar systems actually perform BETTER in colder conditions. |
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MYTH |
It’s better to wait for any number of new products that will be more efficient than what’s available now. |
REALITY |
Efficiency improvements are occurring, but the improvements have been gradual. It’s unlikely that any new product will come out that will be significantly more efficient and cheaper. You are better off taking advantage of the generous incentives available now. By the time something new comes out, your system will have already paid for itself off and you will be generating free electricity for many years to come! |
