The 4 most common solar system myths debunked: experts clarify

The 4 most common solar system myths debunked: experts clarify

According to a report by efahrer.chip.de,

There are many myths circulating about solar power generation in private households. The North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center has now taken on board some of these myths, as reported by pv-magazine, among others. Here are the four most common mistakes:

Myth 1: A solar system means total self-sufficiency
The idea that you can become completely independent of your electricity provider through a photovoltaic system and a home storage system is a misconception. The system and storage can cover a certain proportion of the annual electricity demand, but there is an upper limit. The degree of self-sufficiency is usually between 25 and 90 percent. This value depends on whether storage is available and how high the total power requirement is. In the winter months, the solar power generated is hardly enough, so you have to rely on grid power.

Myth 2: A PV system is only worthwhile with battery storage
A photovoltaic system is financially worthwhile even without battery storage. Whether electricity storage in such a system is worthwhile depends on several factors. The private investor should first assess the share of self-consumption of his PV system. He can then weigh up the costs of battery storage with the added value of a higher proportion of self-consumption.

Myth 3: Only south-facing roofs are suitable for solar systems
South-facing roofs are not always optimal for the use of photovoltaics. An east-west roof offers an advantage: the yield is spread over the entire day because the modules still receive sun in the morning and evening hours. Therefore, for the effective use of photovoltaics, it is important not only to produce as much solar power as possible. It is also important to generate it when it is needed.

Myth 4: You can operate household appliances with a balcony power plant
Plug-in solar devices are a practical solution for people who do not have their own roof to generate electricity. These modules can be installed either on the balcony or in the garden. Even though many tenants hope that they can use it to power household appliances such as a coffee machine, this is unfortunately not possible. The currently permitted nominal power is 600 watts and is therefore not enough.

Dispelling these misconceptions by the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center can help consumers have more realistic expectations of the use of photovoltaic systems. By educating consumers about the true possibilities and limitations of solar energy, consumers can make appropriate decisions about their energy supply. This is particularly important given the ongoing trend towards decentralized energy generation.