Every month the world gets closer to maximizing efficiency while harnessing the power of the sun and wind to produce electricity. In this posting, we’ll explore some of the common misconceptions associated with Solar Power.

If you can think of a use for Solar Power, there is a strong chance it is in use or being developed. Solar Power is used in every state of the U.S. to warm water, provide power to signs, light walkways at night, provide power to operate homes and businesses, provide energy to pump water from wells, heat/cool the air, and even electrify fences for security — ouch!

Myth #1: Solar Power pollutes. Solar Power is not 100% clean/pure due to the use of some chemicals and toxic materials in the manufacturing of semiconductors. Let’s face it, how many materials made by humans really are perfect in that regard? But, it is a heck of a lot cleaner than fossil fuel sources.

You can sleep well at night knowing there are a number of regulations than monitor the process to maximize safety for all concerned. Companies producing Solar technology partner with independent agencies like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to ensure the products and materials go through rigorous safety testing.

Myth #2: Solar Power is expensive. In many cases, it is one of the more cost-effective choices for power delivery. You can reach a breakeven point with cost/benefit in about 8-10 short years. This also depends on your circumstances. Many folks have even gone “off the grid” and never have to rely on power companies for their electricity. Some even have a surplus and can put it back into the grid to help others. An added bonus…you may qualify for state and U.S. government programs that give you incentives and breaks too.

Myth #3: You have to place Solar Power units on the roof. It is common to place solar technology on rooftops as a logical solution. However, solar technology can be placed anywhere the sun shines. Many buildings even work solar technology into windows, artistic structures that receive sun inside, roofing tiles, awnings, trim, and the building material itself.

Myth #4: Solar Power can’t meet the electrical demands of a large town. It is possible to supply a large portion of the U.S. with Solar Power. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the Solar Power resource in a 100-mile-square area of Nevada could supply the U.S. with all its electricity (about 800 gigawatts) using modestly efficient (10%) commercial PV modules. Imagine if all communities expanded their reliance on Solar Power.

Myth #5: Solar Power only works in areas that receive sun most of the time. Devices used to capture solar energy can work well in all 50 states. Yes, even on cloudy days solar energy still reaches the earth’s surface.  There are even Solar Energy storage systems that can store Solar Power for up to a month.

Myth #6: Solar Power is the new standard. As an industry, Solar Power is still in its infant stages of being the big power provider on the block. Even though we are decades away from that ticker tape parade, it’s gathering momentum and every year we get closer to that reality.

Myth #7: Solar panels don’t last that long. Manufacturers are always improving the lifecycle of Solar Power technology. Even though solar panels lose a nominal amount of capturing ability each year, they can still last beyond a manufacturer’s warranty (many offer as much as 25 years).

Myth #8: Solar Power is less reliable than conventional energy sources. Extensive research has proved that, in most cases, Solar Power is more reliable. It is not bound by infrastructure or network problems, consumption, or power outages.

Myth #9: Solar Power can’t reduce our carbon footprint. Solar Power emits zero emissions and greenhouse gases. According to the U.S. Department of Energy: if the Solar Industry were to grow 25% each year (as predicted), the U.S. will offset 10 million metric tons of CO2 per year by 2027. That’s equal to the annual increase emitted by U.S. fossil fuel electricity generation. That’s even beyond carbon neutral and it would help the environment recover.

Myth #10: I need a southern exposure to use Solar Power. Solar panels can face south, east, west, and anywhere in between and still capture a decent amount of the sun’s energy.