Shining a Light on Solar Panel Myths

Solar panels promise clean, reliable power for homes and businesses. Yet, despite their advantages, some businesses are hesitant to invest in their potential due to misinformation or misconceptions. In this blog, we’re busting some common myths about solar panels to help you see why they’re a bright idea for your business.

While they thrive in direct sunlight, solar panels can still operate in below-freezing weather and continue to generate electricity on cloudy days. In fact, cold, sunny days can yield more power than hot ones. And, believe it or not, in regions with unpredictable weather like Britain, rain can actually help panels work better by removing dirt and debris that could otherwise block sunlight.

There is a misconception that solar panels are inefficient. While no energy conversion process is 100% efficient, solar panels today have efficiency levels of up to 29%, which is more than enough to meet the needs of the average business. With advancements in technology and our Energy for All Scheme, we can specify a system that optimises your roof space and is most efficient for your needs. We can also offer battery storage, which will store any excess energy to be used at a later time.

It’s natural to be concerned about the cost of panels and installation fees. The truth is that the price of solar panels has significantly decreased in recent years, making them more affordable than ever. On average, the cost has fallen by about 30%. With our Energy for All Scheme, you can have panels supplied and installed with no upfront cost. We take away the financial worry as all you pay for is the energy you consume, and even that is at a reduced rate!

You might anticipate a multi-day project, but the installation process for solar panels is quicker and easier than anticipated. On average, it takes around one week when performed by professionals. At HDM Energies, we handle everything from siting and orientation to product selection and installation, ensuring a hassle-free process for you. By discussing all the considerations upfront, you can be reassured that installation is carried out correctly and on time.

Solar panels are designed to withstand harsh weather and require minimal maintenance. With our Energy for All Scheme, we handle all maintenance tasks for you. We will undertake periodic cleaning and servicing, along with access to a range of products with guarantees and warranties of up to 30 years, ensuring your panels will operate at peak efficiency for years to come. Plus, we monitor your panels for any electrical issues, so you can enjoy the benefits of solar energy without any hassle.

This is far from accurate; solar panels actually protect the portion of the roof they cover and can even preserve it. Any gaps between the rooftop and panels are sealed, and mounts are protected with a flashing, ensuring no damage. If you are renting, or wanting to sell up and move, you can easily remove panels as they are simply mounted on top, not directly attached to the roof. With the Energy for All Scheme, we supply and install the panels to a top-notch standard, and should you move, you don’t need to worry about removing the panels as we can carry over the contract to the new owner or occupant.

Some still believe that solar panels are bulky and ugly, but today’s panels are sleeker and smaller than older designs. With various mounting options available, panels can also be installed discreetly, ensuring they complement the aesthetic and architecture of your building. One modern solution is the use of in-roof solar panels. These panels offer a sleek appearance that seamlessly blends with the roof. Unlike on-roof panels, integrated panels replace a section of the roof and are embedded, sitting flush to the roofline. Not only are they more visually appealing, but they are also lightweight, windproof, and require easier maintenance since no dust or debris can accumulate underneath them.

We are happy to find panels that fit your preferences and we can even offer panels that enhance the overall look of your property, such as our swish all-black solar panels!

While the production of solar panels needs an energy source and uses other resources, after production, solar panels produce zero emissions during generation, making them a green solution for your business that helps fight climate change. Plus, solar panels have a long lifespan, up to 25 years, after which they can be recycled, further reducing their environmental impact.

Installing a solar power system can do more than help the planet; it can also mean big savings and a sizeable return on investment for you. If you decide to buy panels, you can look to break-even in just seven years on average. Plus, any excess energy generated can be sold back to the grid, providing you with an additional revenue stream. Solar panels also improve your Energy Performance Certificate assessment rating, so you can benefit from the savings if you perform a new assessment. To make things even brighter, solar panels are proven to increase the value of a property, potentially leading to long-term profit if you decide to sell in the future.

Investing in solar panels can be a significant cost, but through our Energy for All Scheme, you needn’t worry about upfront expenses. Under the scheme, you can have panels supplied and installed for zero capital expenditure and still benefit from reduced energy bills. By utilising your roof space, we avoid reliance on the National Grid and provide you energy at a fraction of the usual price. Any surplus energy not consumed by you is sold back to the grid, so we are able to pass on savings directly to you. If you are a landlord, you then have the option to keep these savings for yourself rather than passing them on to tenants, or alternatively, adjust rental rates accordingly.