Solar panels are a popular way to generate clean, renewable energy for your home, business, camping or travel. However, there are many misconceptions about how solar panels. Point Zero Energy is breaking down 10 of the most common misconceptions about solar panels and the truth behind them:

• Solar panels don’t work in the winter: This is not true. Solar panels can still generate a significant amount of electricity during the winter months, as long as they are not covered in snow or ice. Solar panels work by capturing sunlight and converting it into electricity. The amount of sunlight that a solar panel receives is measured in “peak sun hours,” which refers to the number of hours per day that the sun is high enough in the sky to effectively shine on the panel. During the winter, the number of peak sun hours may be lower due to the shorter days, but the intensity of the sunlight can actually be stronger due to the lower angle of the sun in the sky. This means that solar panels can still generate a good amount of electricity, even on shorter, cloudier days. Our rigid panels are durable and made to last any weather Mother Nature throws at them with a corrosion-resistant aluminum frame, our panels can last for decades.
• Solar panels are not efficient in cold weather: False! Solar panels are designed to work efficiently in a wide range of temperatures, from -40°F to +185°F (-40°C to +85°C). While extreme cold or heat can affect the efficiency of solar panels, most solar panels are designed to function effectively in cold weather. You can calculate your maximum voltage in cold weather in our Point Zero Energy Knowledge Base.

• Solar panels need direct sunlight to work: False! Solar panels do need sunlight to generate electricity, but they do not need direct sunlight. In fact, solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days. In fact, solar panels can produce up to 30% of their normal output on a cloudy day.
• Solar panels are not durable: Solar panels are actually quite durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Point Zero Energy’s Rigid Solar Kits are our most durable solar panel kits. They are ideal for permanent off-grid and backup systems and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Have peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable source of power when you need it most.
• Solar panels are not cost-effective: While the initial cost of solar panels may seem high, the long-term savings on your energy bills can be significant. Solar panels are a long-term investment that can pay for themselves over time. Once you’ve installed a Point Zero Energy solar panel system, you’ll be able to generate your own electricity and reduce or potentially even eliminate your reliance on traditional fossil fuels. This can result in significant savings on your energy bills, especially if you live in an area with high electricity rates. Additionally, many states offer incentives and tax credits to encourage the use of solar energy, which can help offset the initial cost of installing solar panels.

• Solar panels are difficult to install: While it is true that traditional, stationary solar panel systems can be complex to install, Point Zero Energy’s portable solar panels are much easier to set up. The Point Zero Energy briefcase kits are conveniently foldable and portable. In fact, our briefcase solar kits are so easy to set up, you can fold them up, throw them in the back of your car and set them up in minutes at your next adventure. With Point Zero Energy, there is no need to hire a contractor or make any permanent changes to your home or business. Simply set up the panels in a sunny location and start generating clean, renewable energy.

• Solar panels take up too much space: Solar panels do take up some space, but they can be installed on rooftops, on the ground, or on walls, depending on your specific needs. Additionally, portable solar panels offer a flexible, space-saving solution for generating solar power. Plus, you can pick the size of your solar panel system to fit your home and space.
• Solar panels are not aesthetically pleasing: Solar panels are available in a range of sizes and styles, and can be customized to blend in with your home or business. Many solar panel systems are designed to be unobtrusive and blend seamlessly with the architecture of a building. Plus with our portable systems, you can put your solar panel system out of the way and out of eyesight.
• Solar panels are not reliable: Solar panels are actually very reliable. Solar panels are a reliable and long-lasting energy source that can provide clean, renewable electricity for many years with minimal maintenance. One of the reasons solar panels are so reliable is that they have few moving parts and don’t require any fuel. This means that there are fewer things that can go wrong with them and they are less prone to breakdowns or malfunctions. Solar panels are also designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and can continue to produce electricity even in extreme heat or cold.
• Solar panels are not that good for the environment: False! Using solar panels to generate electricity has numerous environmental benefits. Solar energy is a clean, renewable energy source that doesn’t produce any harmful emissions or pollutants. When you generate your own electricity with solar panels, you can reduce your carbon footprint and do your part to combat climate change.

In conclusion, there are many misconceptions about solar power that can discourage people from considering it as an energy source. However, it’s important to educate yourself about the facts and understand the true benefits of solar energy. Solar panels are a reliable and long-lasting energy source that can provide clean, renewable electricity for many years with minimal maintenance. They can also provide significant financial and environmental benefits, including long-term savings on energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. So don’t let misconceptions hold you back from exploring the possibility of switching to solar power.

Have more questions? Reach out to the Point Zero Energy team!