Myths that hold back Indian homeowners from using Solar Panels

Utilizing solar energy is a great way to offset energy costs, reduce your carbon footprint and provide a host of other benefits, such as supporting local businesses and contributing to energy independence. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, India is endowed with vast solar energy potential. 

One of the most important factors which influences the establishment of solar power is the availability of solar radiation. India’s geographical location is beneficial for generating a good amount of solar energy. There is solar radiation almost throughout the entire year in most parts of India. Where India has more than 4 kWh of solar radiation per square meter which adds up to 3000 hours of sunshine per year. The National Institute of Solar Energy in India has determined that India has a solar power potential capacity of about 750 GW. 

To reduce the global emission problems, new profusion solar energy technologies are playing a good role. Installing solar panels in residential properties has an array of benefits. However, some myths about solar panels lead to some concerns and confusion about the installation of solar systems. Although with time people are aware of solar energy and its importance, there still lies some apprehensions surrounding the benefit gained from solar energy. 

Here are some common myths that are associated with the use of solar panels in India:

Myth: Solar panels do not work in cold weather

Fact: Solar panels harness the sun’s light and not its heat

The functioning of solar panels is not affected due to temperature as it uses sunlight and not heat.  Solar panels work smoothly in sunny, cold and even cloudy environments. With advanced technologies, solar panels work efficiently and productively in cold weather or in low temperatures. Solar power does not stop working during a drought or heat wave. During heat waves or severe droughts, electricity generation is at risk. But solar panels do not require water to generate electricity.

When the weather is cloudy, solar panels are a feasible source of electricity as they can still produce enough power. Also, cold, snowy winter days generate an equivalent level of electricity to what you obtain on hot summer days. Although sunny days produce more solar energy, solar panels continue to draw energy even when the weather is cloudy. Indirect, or diffused, sunlight will still help to power your home. 

Myth: All solar panels are imported from China

Fact: There are many well-known solar manufacturers in India as well. 

Some well-known solar cell manufacturers in India are Vikram Solar, Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd., Waaree Solar, and Adani Solar. There are many companies that provide solar panel installation and maintenance. 

Myth: Solar panels cause damage to your roof and depreciate the value of your house.

Fact: Solar panels actually preserve and protect the area of the roof they cover from external factors such as weather. In effect, solar panels would upgrade the property value of your home.

The solar panels are not heavy enough or large enough to damage the roof of the house. Moreover, solar installers are well-trained professionals and work after examining the condition of the roof to provide the best fit. Solar Panels are just mounted on top of roofs, which makes them free from other obstacles.

Even many research studies have found that homes with solar panels literally sell faster than homes without solar panels at the current time. Solar panels improve your resale value by a good margin. Most home buyers nowadays in India understand what a home with solar panels means, and they no longer have to make the initial investment and installation.   

Myth: Solar panel systems require a lot of maintenance

Fact: Solar panels are installed by professionals and they provide service and easy maintenance.

Installing solar panels is comparatively simple if one is associated with a professional company. If your panel system is connected to your utility grid then it makes solar panels simpler to maintain. The only maintenance they require is cleaning to remove any dust or debris confined to them. A good solar panel installation company will give you proper maintenance and services which make your system clean and give you more life.

Myth: Solar power is not affordable in India

Fact: The cost of installing solar panels has decreased profoundly in the last decades, making it economical for households. 

This statement holds no significance in the present world. Many of us think that switching to solar panels for energy is a luxury, and this option is only for wealthy folks. This is a big lie. Falling costs of solar with time and the availability of financing options like loans and subsidies by the government have made solar power generation a feasible option for all. Property owners are even eligible for incentives based on solar energy generation. 

Also, most residential solar energy systems have reparation of 5-10 years of electricity bill savings based on their geographical location. Most solar providers also give a guarantee of a design life of around 30 years. 

A case of Bengaluru

While rooftop solar in residential buildings can be challenging, there is wider adoption in independent homes that can even feed the excess power to the main grid. 

In a case taken from The Times Property, H B Vaidya from Bengaluru installed a 5kW capacity on the roof of his independent home on a 1650 sq ft plot. After meeting their family’s energy needs of approximately 300 units, the Vaidyas feed in the excess power to the common grid, thereby reducing their energy costs. 

To further incentivize homeowners, Mili Majumdar, MD, Green Business Certification Inc (GBCI) India, said, “Some other targeted incentives can be in the form of increasing Central Financial Assistance and providing tax incentives to people who have adopted solar. Additionally, we can think of increasing the feed-in-tariff rate for the units being exported. Interest-free loans for scaling-up rooftop solar installations can also be provided.” 

(with inputs from Aayushi Sharma)