When we started Project Solar a decade ago, combating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions were at the heart of what we aimed to achieve. It’s been a rewarding journey, but along the way, one of our biggest hurdles has been addressing the widespread misconceptions about solar panels among the British population.

To address these myths, we conducted research to uncover the most common misunderstandings people have regarding solar systems and their potential to benefit the planet. From the belief that solar panels only work in bright sunlight to the idea that they don’t produce energy during cloudy weather, our findings show that many still lack awareness about the true capabilities of solar technology.

Below are some of the most prevalent misconceptions we’ve uncovered:

Solar energy can't be generated on cloudy days or during winter

Surprisingly, 7.4 million Britons (13.8%) believe that solar panels cannot generate electricity on overcast days, while 5.7 million people (10.7%) think solar energy is exclusive to summer. While solar panels do perform best under clear skies, they can still produce energy even when it's cloudy, which is fantastic news for those living in the UK!

Moreover, solar energy can be harnessed year-round, and surprisingly, cooler temperatures can actually enhance their efficiency. For more information on solar panel performance in winter, check out our latest blog post.

Solar energy can only be stored in deserts

A surprising 7.5% of the British public mistakenly believe that solar energy can only be stored in desert regions. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Regardless of whether you live in a bustling city or a quieter suburb, storing solar energy is a fantastic way to contribute to environmental sustainability and reduce your energy costs over time.

Many people find the concept of solar storage confusing, with 11.1% incorrectly assuming that solar energy can only be stored in environments above 20 degrees Celsius. To learn more about solar storage solutions, visit our informative blog.

Solar panels are unaffordable

Another common misconception is that solar panels are prohibitively expensive for the average person. A staggering 7.4 million people (13.8%) think solar power is more costly than traditional fossil fuels. However, the price of solar power has plummeted by 80% over the past decade, making it more accessible than ever before. The long-term savings are also significant, as the longer a solar system is installed, the greater the financial benefits.

For a personalized quote, contact our friendly team today. Our CEO, Simon Peat, is passionate about educating the public on the advantages of solar panels. He emphasized, "There is much work to be done to help people realize that we can all harness the sun's energy to power our homes and appliances."

He added, "We've seen countless instances where urban households, despite being in areas known for overcast weather, have embraced solar panels and significantly cut down on their energy bills." If you have any questions about solar panels—whether it's installation, storage, or solar batteries—our team is here to assist you.