While solar panels haven’t been around for forever, there seems to be myths surrounding this valuable energy everywhere we turn. Here at Planet Roofing, we think everyone who can should take advantage of Colorado’s beautiful sun and harness its power. As Denver roofing contractors, we love to speak to our customers about solar panels and the sun’s energy.
Solar Myth 1: Solar will get more efficient so I should just wait. Fact: These days the media loves to hype emerging technologies, but the truth is we’re still using the same solar technology we were back in the 1960’s. Since then, solar has become only moderately more efficient. Given this stable technology profile and the 30 percent federal solar tax credit solar makes sense right now.
Solar Myth 2: I can store the excess energy I generate in batteries. Fact: Nearly all modern solar panel systems are grid tied which means they’re connected to the conventional electricity grid. Your system generates power during the day and excess is fed back into the grid through a system called net metering. When this happens, your meter spins backwards and your utility company credits you for that power. At night or on overcast days, you’ll use grid power, but you don’t generally get charged for it because of all the credit you’ve generated. This grid tied method tends to be the most convenient for homeowners. Batteries are an option for those who really want them, but they’re expensive, bulky, and have to be replaced every five to ten years.