Common Solar Myths & Misconceptions Busted!

If you have been considering making the move to solar energy, you might have been told a solar energy myth or two! Allow us to fill you in on some of the many major benefits of installing one of our solar systems in South Africa. In this brief guide, we will dispel some common solar myths and misconceptions. We will also have a look at some of the reasons why our solar systems (are so useful for homes and businesses, especially in the context of our country. 

With Alumo Energy, you can be assured that you are receiving high-quality, tried and tested technology and expertise. We are sure that you have reached your wit’s end with load shedding and power outages – luckily, we have just the thing to get the lights back on. 

5 Solar Myths Debunked

Solar energy has been quickly gaining traction as a sustainable and cost-effective power solution. However, there are still a few solar energy myths surrounding solar systems and how they work. Let’s dispel some of these and work towards a more accurate view of solar energy.

Upfront Expenses

Perhaps the most common misconception that surrounds solar solutions is that they cost an arm and a leg in upfront costs. While it is true that there is an initial investment required for solar panel installation, it is essential to think about the long-term financial benefits.
Solar systems allow homeowners and businesses to save money on their energy bills over the entire duration of the system’s lifespan, which easily offsets the initial investment. With Alumo Energy, there are also multiple options regarding payment – you can rent a system, buy a system, or upgrade it as you go.We hope to slowly change this perception and begin changing the minds of individuals about solar solutions and how much they really cost.

Reliability

Some people may think that solar energy is not a reliable source of power, especially when it is a cloudy or rainy day. However, this is not the case – solar panels are more than capable of creating electricity in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
On top of this, our solar systems can be integrated with solar battery storage, which allows excess energy to be stored and utilised when needed. This means you can expect a reliable flow of energy, even when there is no direct sunlight to speak of.

• Performance

  There is a misconception that solar panels are not efficient enough to meet the energy demands of most households or businesses. This might be the case because people are basing this on what solar solutions were capable of in the past.
  However, solar technology has come a long way in the last while and panel efficiency and performance have significantly improved. There are also a few other factors that contribute to optimising performance, such as panel orientation, tilt, and shading.

  Maintenance

  Some individuals may believe that solar systems will require extensive and continuous maintenance. In actuality, high-quality solar panels, like those we insist on using at Alumo Energy, have been created to be durable and low maintenance.
  Semi-regular cleaning to remove dust and debris, along with the occasional inspection, is typically enough to ensure optimal performance. We make sure to take care of this side of things with yearly maintenance sessions that are included in the upfront payment or rental agreement.

  Adaptability

  Contrary to popular solar energy myth, solar systems can easily be adapted to a variety of settings, including commercial buildings, residential houses, and remote areas. Solar solutions can be tailored to suit a plethora of property types and unique requirements, whether through ground-mounted systems or rooftop installations.
  This impressive adaptability allows more South Africans to receive the benefits of solar energy, regardless of their location or property constraints. From urban houses to rural farms, solar energy can be harnessed effectively, providing a trustworthy and sustainable power solution.

  It’s important to move away from these solar myths if we want to begin effectively harnessing the potential of solar energy. At Alumo Energy, one of our goals is to teach South Africans about the possibilities that come with renewable solar energy.

The Positives Of Making The Switch To Solar Systems For Businesses

Solar systems come with a host of benefits and positive outcomes for businesses in South Africa, especially in overcoming the many challenges that come with load shedding. By embracing the change to solar energy, businesses can expect to see advantages that contribute to their financial savings, operational efficiency, long-term growth, and environmental responsibility.

One of the foremost appeals of solar energy for establishments is its reliability. Solar power provides a consistent and uninterrupted source of electricity, ensuring that businesses can maintain their operations even during dreaded load-shedding periods or power outages. This ability to rely on power output translates to reduced downtime, increased productivity, and greater customer satisfaction. People are more likely to visit a business they know will be up and running regardless of load-shedding. 

Solar systems also provide some enticing cost savings for businesses, especially over a longer period. By harnessing the sun’s energy, businesses can reduce or eliminate their dependence on the grid, resulting in significantly lower energy bills. The long-term benefits are even more evident as you begin to recoup the initial investment and enjoy consistent savings over the long lifespan of one of our solar systems. These savings can then be put towards other areas of the business, like innovation, expansion, or employee development.

On top of the substantial financial advantages, solar energy solutions contribute to environmental sustainability. By utilising clean and renewable energy, businesses reduce their carbon footprint and bring their reliance on fossil fuels right down. This also shows customers and potential clients that your business is taking steps to create a greener tomorrow and enhances the business’ reputation.

What Makes Our Country The Perfect Setting For Solar Systems

Our country’s abundant sunshine, supportive policies, and energy landscape make it the perfect setting for solar power and solar systems. With an average of 2,500 to 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, our nation possesses an exceptional solar resource that can efficiently generate electricity. This steady availability of sunlight offers businesses and homeowners a consistent and reliable source of energy that is just waiting to be harnessed.

Additionally, South Africa’s energy landscape which is characterised by our heavy reliance on coal leaves the door open to diversify the energy mix with solar power. Our government has also created a variety of tax incentives to encourage citizens to make the switch to solar energy. It certainly cannot hurt to begin taking advantage of these incentives and put yourself in a position to succeed with Alumo Energy and our solar systems.

What Would Happen If More People Made The Switch To Renewable Solar Energy?

Let’s have a look at a few things that could happen if the switch to solar power became more widespread and individuals began embracing the potential of the sun.

• Environmental Impact – A widespread adoption of solar energy would substantially reduce carbon emissions and slow down the process of climate change. By replacing fossil fuel-based power generation with renewable solar power, we could significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions and help contribute to a more sustainable future for our planet.

• Greater Energy Independence – If more and more people decided to make the switch to solar energy, it would enhance energy independence for individuals and communities. By generating their own power, people would become far less reliant on the traditional power grid, which as we know all too well in South Africa, is susceptible to disruptions and price increases. This improved independence would provide better control over energy costs and help to ensure a more reliable power supply, even in remote or underserved areas.

 

• Bolstered Economic Opportunities – A widespread move to solar power would create a plethora of economic opportunities. The solar industry would experience substantial growth, leading to job creation across various sectors such as manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. Of course, this is especially beneficial in a South African context, and it would help us move forward at a faster pace.

• Affordability of Energy – Solar energy has the capability to contribute to greater energy affordability. As the costs of solar solutions and related technologies continue to go down, more individuals will be able to access affordable and renewable energy solutions. Reduced energy bills would alleviate much of the financial burden on households and businesses, providing economic relief and improving the general quality of life.

• Greater Energy Security – If many more people decided to take electricity creation into their own hands, the decentralised energy infrastructure would improve energy security. Essentially, because people wouldn’t be as reliant on the grid, they become far less vulnerable to power outages, grid failures, or fuel supply disruptions. This increased resilience would help to ensure uninterrupted access to electricity, especially during emergencies or natural disasters.

• Advancements in Technology – With the renewable energy industry getting significantly bigger and increasing demand, the widespread adoption of solar energy would spur further advancements in technology. Research and development in solar technology would speed up, leading to more efficient solar panels, advanced energy storage solutions, and improved system integration.

As you can see, beyond the cost savings, energy independence, reliability, and all the other fantastic benefits of installing a solar system (South Africa), a widespread move to solar energy can benefit everyone. Let’s work together to be a part of the solution!

Why Choose Alumo Energy?

Ever since entering the industry, we have worked tirelessly to provide our customers with solar solutions that are reliable and efficient. Our goal is to help as many South Africans as possible make the switch to renewable solar energy and encourage a greener future for us all. We are dedicated to educating, inspiring, and enabling those around us to embrace a more energy-efficient world.

When you choose Alumo Energy, you can expect a comprehensive process that begins with personalised consultations to understand your unique energy requirements. We then send out one of our expert teams to install a top-of-the-line solar system, making sure to meet industry standards and be fully compliant. 

We are all about long-term performance and ensuring that our technology stands the test of time, for this reason, we carry out annual maintenance sessions and onsite inspections – offering our valued customers that added peace of mind. 

We stand out amongst the crowd because we utilise only the highest quality technology sourced locally and from trusted international suppliers. Our intelligent solar systems are equipped with high-tech grid monitoring capabilities, seamlessly switching modes as needed.

Contact us today and we will help you make the switch to renewable solar energy!