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Myths and Misconceptions About Solar

By Cameron Domes

There are a number of misconceptions people have about solar panels, and many myths people still believe to be true. This blog covers some of the most common ones and explains why they might seem true on the surface, but are actually incorrect or misleading.

Buying Low, Selling High.

One of the biggest misconceptions around solar and Solar Club™ is that you can sell at a higher rate and buy at a lower rate. While that’s not wrong, it doesn’t tell the whole story.

Regulation in Alberta states that you are credited for the energy you put into the grid at the same rate you pay to pull it out of the grid. You buy and sell at a higher rate when you have more energy to sell, and at a lower rate when you have more to buy.

This means you can take advantage of the long, sunny days we get here in Alberta to build up a credit in the summer, which can then be used in the winter.

If you’re new to how this works, you can learn more about The Solar Club works and how it helps manage your rates throughout the year.

Solar Is Not Green.

This myth comes up every now and then. Some people believe that solar panels produce more emissions than non-renewable sources like coal, natural gas, and oil.

While it’s true that solar panels have the highest upfront emissions cost, this is offset by their long lifespan and years of emission-free energy generation.

The total emissions of natural gas, one of the cleanest sources of energy according to the Government of Alberta, are about 11 times higher than solar. Sources like coal and oil can be upwards of 20 times more polluting.

Solar Panels Never Break Even.

This is a dated belief from when residential solar panels were newer, with shorter lifespans and higher costs.

The cost of residential solar has dropped significantly in recent years. Panel prices have fallen by around 80% over the last decade, making them much more affordable.

Modern solar panels are built to last. Most are rated to still produce at about 80% capacity after 25 years, and many come with manufacturer warranties that cover that same timeframe.

While it varies from system to system, installations can take up to 20 years to break even, though that’s on the higher end. With Solar Club™, it’s possible to bring that timeline down to around 6 to 8 years.

If you’re planning ahead, it’s also worth reviewing our Pre-Solar Rate options while you’re getting quotes and preparing for installation.

It’s Too Snowy in Canada. There’s Not Enough Sun.

It’s true, we do get a lot of snow here, and your panels won’t produce much when they’re covered. But that’s only part of the story. Because of how short the days are in winter and how long they are in summer, most of your solar production happens during the summer months anyway.

Alberta is actually the sunniest province in the country, which means we’re in one of the best places in Canada to benefit from solar.

Solar Club™ helps you make the most of that production by putting you on a higher rate during the summer when you’re generating more energy than you’re using. This allows you to build up a credit that can help offset your bills in the winter, so you can feel the benefit of your system year-round.


Solar Panels Aren’t Efficient Enough

Another misconception is rooted in some truth. Solar panels typically convert about 15 to 25% of sunlight into electricity. Compared to other non-renewable sources like natural gas, which can be upwards of 90% efficient, solar panels can seem inefficient. When compared to coal, which is around 33% efficient, the difference is smaller.

What these comparisons don’t account for is that the sun is constantly producing energy, whether we capture it or not.

More efficient panels mostly mean they take up less space. In many cases, the regulations that limit system size based on your energy usage are a bigger factor than the space available on your roof.

Fewer panels can mean lower upfront costs, but with panel prices dropping by about 80% over the last decade, affordability has improved significantly.

Final Thoughts.

These are some of the more common myths and misconceptions around getting solar panels installed here in Alberta.

While solar isn’t the right fit for everyone, it can be a strong long-term investment that helps lower your utility costs over time. If you’re considering solar, we always recommend getting quotes from at least three installers before making a decision.

If you’d like more information about solar or Solar Club™, you can reach out to Camrose Energy at (780) 781-4115 or email solar@camroseenergy.com. We love to talk solar.

Interested in learning more about Solar or the Solar Club™?

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