With advancements in solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BES) technologies, renewable energy systems have become a key tool for reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainability goals. Used separately or combined, these systems not only contribute to environmental stewardship but also offer significant financial incentives.

Despite their growing adoption, misconceptions about solar panels and battery storage systems persist. To help cut through the noise, our Electrical Team has compiled and debunked seven common myths that may be holding organizations back from exploring the full potential of these technologies.

Let’s gain some clarity and uncover the facts!

Myth 1: Solar panels don’t work in cloudy or cold weather.

Fact: Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, though at reduced efficiency. They work efficiently in cold weather, as solar panels are more efficient at converting sunlight to electricity when temperatures are cooler.

Myth 2: Solar panels require constant maintenance.

Fact: Solar panels are low-maintenance and can last for 25-40 years. They do, however, need regular inspections and occasional cleaning to remove dirt, dust, or debris. Many systems also come with warranties that cover performance for decades.

Prism offers design and implementation support for solar PV systems for commercial and institutional buildings.

Solar panels are low-maintenance and can last for 25-40 years. Photo: Envato Elements. 

Myth 3: Solar panels can damage roofs and cause leaks.

Fact: It’s true that some solar panels need to be attached by drilling into the roof, which can sometimes cause damage or leaks. There are special mounting systems, however, that don’t require drilling. These systems use weights or clamps to hold the panels in place, keeping the roof intact and preventing leaks.

Myth 4: Batteries only store energy for nighttime use and don’t last long.

Fact: While batteries are used to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night, they also help with load management during peak demand times or power outages, as seen in Figure 1 below. This offers greater resiliency, as well as cost savings.

Modern lithium-ion batteries have lifespans of 10-15 years or more, and their performance and durability continue to improve with advancing technology. Battery energy storage systems are available in a wide range of sizes, from residential to utility-scale.

Integration of solar and battery storage

Figure 1: Simplified interconnection and energy flow diagram for a Solar PV system with BES integration.

Myth 5: Solar panels and battery systems are too expensive.

Fact: Costs have significantly dropped in recent years, and many governments and utilities offer incentives, rebates, and financing options that make solar and battery systems more affordable than ever. Over time, these systems often pay for themselves through energy savings.

In British Columbia, BC Hydro offers rebates of up to $50,000 for businesses and multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs) for solar and battery systems rated at less than 100 kW. Additional funding is available for larger systems through BC Hydro’s Load Displacement Incentive program.

Myth 6: Solar panels and batteries are difficult to integrate with existing systems.

Fact: Modern solar and battery storage systems, when properly designed, provide seamless integration with existing electrical infrastructure.

Prism provides expert electrical design and implementation support by working with contractors and suppliers to ensure a hassle-free integration process.

Myth 7: Solar panels and batteries can’t support large-scale energy needs.

Fact: Advances in technology have made solar panels and battery energy storage systems scalable for commercial, institutional, and industrial use. Customized solutions can be designed to meet large-scale energy demands, making them a viable option for even the most energy-intensive operations.

Prism is here to support your organization’s success.

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Banner Photo credits: Left, Prism Engineering; Right, UniEnergy Technologies, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons with changes.