Despite the growing popularity of solar panels in the UK, there are still many misconceptions that cause hesitation among homeowners considering the switch to renewable energy. Some believe solar panels don’t work in winter, while others think they don’t generate power on cloudy days. These myths can prevent people from taking advantage of solar power’s cost-saving and environmental benefits.
At Nano Pro-Tech, we’re here to set the record straight. Let’s debunk five of the most common myths about solar panels in the UK, using real data and expert insights.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in the UK’s Cloudy Weather
Fact: Solar panels generate electricity even on cloudy days!
One of the biggest misconceptions is that solar panels only work in direct sunlight. In reality, modern photovoltaic (PV) panels can generate power even in overcast conditions.
How?
Solar panels convert light into electricity, not heat. While bright, sunny days provide optimal conditions, solar panels can still capture diffused sunlight and produce energy even when the sky is cloudy.
🔹 Real Data: Countries like the UK and Germany (which has similar weather but is a global leader in solar energy) still benefit from solar power. In fact, the UK solar industry has over 15 GW of installed capacity, proving that solar energy works even in less sunny climates.
🔹 Fact Check: The UK still receives an average of 4 daylight hours per day in winter, which is enough to generate energy savings.
Myth 2: Solar Panels Stop Working in Winter
Fact: Solar panels work all year round – even in winter!
A common belief is that solar panels are ineffective during the colder months. However, temperature has little to do with how well solar panels perform; in fact, cooler conditions can even improve efficiency.
Why?
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, not heat. In fact, excessive heat can reduce panel efficiency, which is why solar panels can sometimes work better on crisp, sunny winter days than on extremely hot summer ones.
🔹 Example: Countries like Norway and Canada (with far colder climates than the UK) still generate substantial solar power during winter.
🔹 Pro Tip: While winter days are shorter, combining solar panels with battery storage ensures that energy captured during the day can be used at night, maximising efficiency.
Myth 3: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
Fact: Solar panel prices have dropped significantly, and financing options make them affordable!
Many homeowners still believe that solar panels are too costly, but prices have fallen by over 80% in the last decade due to advancements in technology and increased demand.
Financial Benefits:
✔ Government incentives: UK homeowners don’t pay VAT on solar panel installations.
✔ Energy bill savings: Generate free electricity and cut costs for years to come.
✔ Finance options: Some premium solar installers, including us here at Nano Pro-Tech, offer payment plans from as little as £75 per month, making solar more accessible than ever.
🔹 Did You Know? A typical UK home can save up to £600 per year on electricity bills with a solar panel and battery system.
Myth 4: Solar Panels Don’t Last Long and Require Too Much Maintenance
Fact: Solar panels are built to last and require minimal upkeep!
Many people assume that solar panels need constant maintenance or that they wear out quickly. In reality, modern solar panels come with 25+ year warranties and require very little maintenance.
Durability Facts:
✔ No moving parts: This reduces wear and tear.
✔ Self-cleaning effect: Rain naturally helps wash away dust and debris.
✔ Occasional cleaning and system monitoring: A simple annual check-up is enough to keep them performing at their best.
🔹 Industry Insight: Most premium solar panels, like those installed by Nano Pro-Tech, maintain 80-90% of their original efficiency even after 25 years.
Myth 5: You Can’t Use Solar Panels at Night or During Power Cuts
Fact: With battery storage, you can use solar energy at night and even during outages!
While it’s true that solar panels don’t generate electricity at night, that doesn’t mean you can’t use solar energy after sunset. The solution? Battery storage systems like the Tesla Powerwall.
How It Works:
✔ Stores excess solar energy produced during the day for use at night.
✔ Provides backup power during outages, keeping your home running.
✔ Maximises savings by storing energy when it’s cheap and using it during peak times.
By pairing solar panels with a battery, you can enjoy energy independence and greater savings – even when the sun isn’t shining!
The truth is, solar panels are an effective, affordable, and long-lasting solution for UK homeowners. They work in cloudy weather, during winter, and even at night with battery storage. At Nano Pro-Tech, we specialise in designing and installing high-performance solar & battery systems, ensuring maximum efficiency and savings for every home.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and start generating more clean, renewable energy for your home! Email us at info@nano-pro.tech, fill in our online form here, or give us a call on 0800 861 1582.