Common Solar Myths Debunked – What Business Owners Need to Know
Solar energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources in the UK, yet many businesses hesitate due to misconceptions about cost, efficiency, and reliability. With energy prices rising and sustainability targets becoming stricter, now is the time to separate fact from fiction.
At East Green Energy, we help businesses understand the real benefits of solar PV. Here, we debunk some of the most common myths about solar power and explain why it’s a smart investment for commercial properties.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in the UK’s Cloudy Weather
🔹 The Truth: Solar PV panels don’t need direct sunlight—they generate electricity from daylight, even on cloudy days.
Modern solar technology captures diffuse sunlight, meaning UK solar panels still operate efficiently.
Countries with similar climates, like Germany and the Netherlands, have higher solar adoption rates than the UK.
Even in winter, solar panels produce usable energy—they just generate less compared to summer months.
Fact: The UK gets around 1,100–1,600 sunlight hours per year, making solar energy a viable and profitable solution for businesses.
Myth 2: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive for Businesses
🔹 The Truth: Solar PV is more affordable than ever, with the cost of solar panels dropping by over 80% in the last decade.
Many businesses recover their investment within 5–7 years through energy savings.
Government incentives like tax relief schemes and commercial solar grants can reduce upfront costs.
Solar panels provide long-term financial benefits, protecting businesses from rising electricity prices.
Fact: A well-designed commercial solar PV system can reduce electricity costs by 50-70% over its lifetime.
Myth 3: Solar PV Maintenance is Expensive and Time-Consuming
🔹 The Truth: Solar panels require minimal maintenance and can last 25+ years with basic care.
Annual inspections and occasional cleaning are usually enough to keep systems running efficiently.
High-quality solar panels come with warranties of up to 25 years, ensuring long-term performance.
Regular monitoring can quickly identify any efficiency drops, allowing for simple fixes.
Fact: The operating and maintenance (O&M) costs for solar PV systems are significantly lower than for traditional energy sources.
Myth 4: Solar Energy Can’t Power a Business 24/7
🔹 The Truth: While solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, battery storage can store excess energy for use at night or during peak times.
Businesses can install commercial battery storage to maximise self-sufficiency.
Grid connections allow businesses to use solar power during the day and rely on grid energy at night if needed.
Solar PV can be integrated with other renewable solutions like heat pumps for even greater energy independence.
Fact: Many UK businesses are already achieving energy independence with solar PV and battery storage solutions.
Myth 5: Installing Solar Panels Will Disrupt Business Operations
🔹 The Truth: Most commercial solar PV installations are completed within days or weeks, with minimal disruption to daily operations.
Solar panels can be installed on existing rooftops, requiring no extra land space.
Expert installers work around business hours to avoid interference.
Many businesses experience immediate savings on energy bills after installation.
Fact: Roof-mounted solar panels don’t affect business operations and provide an instant return on investment.
Why Businesses Should Consider Solar PV Now
With energy costs rising and sustainability targets tightening, switching to solar PV is no longer just an environmental decision—it’s a strategic financial move.
Immediate energy cost savings
Protection against future electricity price increases
Increased property value & sustainability credentials
Potential tax benefits and grants available
Robbie Gawthrop, Founder at East Green Energy, commented:
“We speak to many businesses that hesitate due to common solar myths, but the reality is that solar PV is one of the most cost-effective and future-proof energy solutions available today. With rising energy costs, now is the time to invest in a smarter, greener future.”
Take the Next Step Towards Solar for Your Business
Solar PV is a proven, reliable, and cost-effective energy solution for businesses of all sizes. If you’ve been holding back due to myths, now is the time to explore how solar can work for your commercial property.
