Shining a Light on Solar Panel Myths: What Energy Professionals Need to Know

With the UK's solar market booming, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction. What are solar panels really capable of in these rainy isles?

Myth 1: It's not sunny enough

One of the most persistent myths about solar panels is that the British weather renders them worthless. However, as experts in the green energy sector, we know that this simply isn't true. Solar panels are designed to generate power in both sunny and cloudy weather, reacting to the visible light spectrum rather than just direct sunlight. In fact, the UK receives an average of five 'sun hours' per day between April and September, providing ample opportunity for clean, green solar power generation.

Myth 2: Solar panels have to face South

While a South-facing roof will indeed yield the greatest savings on energy bills, East and West-facing roofs are also viable options, producing around 85% of the power generated by a South-facing array. This flexibility opens up solar panel installation to a wider range of properties and customers. In fact, the UK solar industry hit nearly 200,000 residential installs in 2023.

Myth 3: You can't use solar electricity during power cuts

As the energy and power landscape evolves, it's important for professionals to stay up to date on the latest technological advancements. For example, the Tesla Powerwall 3 is a game-changing battery storage solution that allows homes to continue using solar-generated electricity even during power cuts. By taking the home temporarily off-grid, the Powerwall 3 ensures a reliable power supply and enhances the overall value of a solar panel installation.

Myth 4: Solar panels are too expensive

Some may be hesitant to invest in solar panels due to concerns about upfront costs and long-term returns. However, the truth is that solar panels offer a compelling return on investment, often outperforming traditional savings accounts. With an average payback period of 14 years and potential returns of 5-6% each year, solar panels are a smart choice for those looking to reduce their energy bills and generate additional income through Smart Export Guarantee tariffs.

Myth 5: Solar panels need a battery

Solar panels can be a valuable investment even without a battery. By encouraging energy use during daylight hours and scheduling appliances to run when the sun is shining, households can maximise their savings and make the most of their solar-generated power. Of course, for those with more typical energy usage patterns, a battery can provide additional benefits and long-term savings.

As a trusted partner in energy and power recruitment, Deploy is committed to helping professionals navigate the complexities of the solar market and capitalise on the opportunities it presents. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your career in the industry, our team of specialists is here to support you with the latest insights, trends, and opportunities.

If you're interested in learning more about how solar panels can benefit your clients or your own career in the energy and power sector, we encourage you to reach out to our team. With our deep understanding of the industry and our commitment to delivering quality, compliant recruitment solutions, Deploy is your ideal partner for success in the dynamic world of solar power.

Two construction workers near a railway with bridge construction in the background.
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These typically include a professional summary, project experience, technical and digital competencies, safety and compliance credentials, and leadership or stakeholder engagement experience. Within these sections, high-ranking terms such as project delivery, safety-critical environments, asset management, BIM coordination, SCADA systems, digital rail, data-driven decision-making, systems integration, and operational assurance help your CV align with modern infrastructure hiring needs. These terms do not inflate your profile; they accurately reflect how infrastructure work is delivered today. Using High-Impact CV Language Effectively Certain CV terms consistently perform well because they communicate value quickly. Phrases such as led end-to-end delivery, implemented digital reporting tools, improved safety compliance, optimised asset performance, supported system integration, and enabled data-led decision-making signals both responsibility and impact. 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Worker in safety vest and hard hat walks near solar panels, Deploy logo present, read here prompt.
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