Solar Energy myths

Although there is a proliferation of Solar power in India, there are still a lot of myths surrounding Solar Power. In this blog, we look at the different myths and shed light on them to reveal the facts.

Myth 1: Solar Panels Are Expensive

In India, A Solar PV system that cost around 2.5 lakhs a few years back is now available for a lakh rupees or less.

Also with the incentives like Loan and financing options provided by the government, the Solar prices are made very attractive for users to invest in Solar. The user can also avail the Net metering option to feed in extra power to the grid to get credit.

Also with the incentives like Loan and financing options provided by the government, the Solar prices are made very attractive for users to invest in Solar. The user can also avail the Net metering option to feed in extra power to the grid to get credit.

The total annual savings for a 10KW Solar rooftop system is anywhere around 1.2-1.5 lakh rupees. The usualpayback period for commercial enterprises would be 3-5 years and 5-7 years for residential users.This includes the electricity savings which can pay for itself in 4-6 years of its cost.

Myth 2: Solar Doesn’t Work In Cloudy Climate

Although the power output of the Solar panels on a cloudy day may be less compared to a clear sunny day, even then they can produce 10-20% of their capacity. What a Solar PV system needs is sunlight- If there is sunlight, Solar PV Systems work.

On partly cloudy days solar can be affected by a phenomenon known as ‘Edge of cloud’ effect where the sunlight is magnified by the edges of the clouds which can increase the solar panel output.

The power output of the system also depends on the type of Solar panel. In fact, there are some Solar panels that show better performance in mild cold climates as the panel efficiency is high at low temperatures.

Myth 3: Solar Panels Require Regular Maintenance

Solar panels hardly require any maintenance because of the absence of any moving parts. Solar arrays are designed to be durable and require minimal maintenance.

The Solar PV system can last for over 15 years with a performance warranty of 25 years.It only requires mild cleaning to remove dust collected on the solar panels. It can give a steady output for a long period of time without much loss of efficiency.

Myth 4: Solar Panels Need A Battery To Store The Electricity That Solar System Produces

Batteries are not needed in case of the grid tied systems. In this case, the grid works as a virtual battery with adjustment system.

There is a bi-directional meter that sends excess power(more than what is required by the loads to the grid) and in the case of excess power needed by the loads, power is taken from the grid.

In this kind of a system where excess power is fed to the grid is called Net Metering where the customer is credited by the DISCOMs(distribution companies).

For further reading:

Solar PV SystemsMyth 5: Solar Tracking Systems Are Needed

Although Tracking systems track the path of the Sun to generate maximum power, a Solar PV system can still work well without Tracking system if it is installed at an optimum angle to receive maximum light. Also, tracking systems make the Solar PV systems more expensive and the maintenance of the system also increases.

Conclusion

Above we have addressed some of the top Solar myths. If you want to learn more about how to implement clean energy for your energy needs, give us a call or contact us. One of our consultants will happy to discuss with you and provide a customized solution to suit your needs.

The Author is a Solar Consultant and is passionate about Renewable Energy Technologies. https://www.lavancha.in