I started employment at Electrotec Power Solutions Ltd in #Crawley last month. Whatever I thought I know about Solar PV and renewable energy, before my start date, couldn't be further from reality. And, they say ignorance is bliss . . .
Example:
- Solar PV panels must have direct sunlight to be effective and efficient. Not true.
Panels operate efficiently by converting direct current to alternative current whilst exposed to daylight.
- You can only fit panels to a roof. Not true.
Ground-mounted panels are a viable option whether the customer is located in a first-floor basement flat or a large-scale commercial farm.
- No alternative to, in some people's view, unsightly panels elevated above the roof. Not true.
Panels can be integrated and blended into the roof, looking aesthetically pleasing.
- Solar PV systems cost a small fortune and take an age to breakeven: Not true.
Fully installed systems start from £5000 and clients can easily benefit a ROI well inside 8 years, more likely 5 to 6 years.
- Large upfront costs are required. Not true.
Systems can be fully financed and small, manageable monthly payments at a low APR, can be arranged.
- Technical issues could be a problem. Not true.
Panels carry at least a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty with inverters and batteries carrying at least a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- High and arduous maintenance issues. Not true.
Systems are essentially maintenance-free and issues that are unlikely to arise are covered within the manufacturer’s warranty.
- In order to see benefit from a system, the building must be fully exposed and fully accessible to daylight. So, a tall tree line, for example, obscuring the panels, would render the system dormant. Not true.
Panels can be strategically positioned to ensure maximum exposure to daylight.
- Unless you plan to stay at the property indefinitely, there is no point having a system installed. Not true.
Having a system installed adds enormous value to your property, serving as a USP and value-add when selling especially when property prices are so low, there is a dip in the marketplace and people are reluctant to buy/sell and move despite really wanting to.
- Concerns over the provider going out of business after the installation. Not true.
The manufacturer’s warranty covers the customer regardless as to whether or not the business supplying and installing the system has folded.
Your vote and comments would be invaluable to me.
Thank you, in advance, for voting and sharing your insight.