Myth:

Saskatchewan does not get enough sunlight for solar energy

Truth:

Saskatchewan has the greatest solar producing potential in all of Canada.

Solar Production Chart. Used with permission from energyhub.org

Solar Potential Map. Used with permission from energyhub.org

Truth:

Solar panels have no moving parts so they require little maintenance. Keeping the solar system in good working order requires annual washing. 

Myth:

Solar panels require a lot of maintenance.

Myth:

Solar panels do not work on cloudy days.

Truth:

If there is daylight, solar panels will still generate electricity. Solar panels can convert indirect and diffuse sunlight into usable energy.

Myth:

Solar panels do not last long.

Truth:

Solar panels continue to produce 80% or greater of their rated output after 25 years.

Myth:

Solar panels cannot produce energy when there is snow.

Truth:

Solar panels are able to generate energy during snow conditions. Tilted at an angle, light snow often slides right off the panel. 

 A five year study conducted by the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology determined that snow buildup has little impact on the efficiency of a solar panel, contributing only to a 3% energy loss.

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More information of the study can be found at here.

Image from http://www.nait.ca/docs/NAIT_Reference_Array_Report_March_31_2016_(revD).pdf

Truth:

Grid tie systems do not require any batteries. The power grid acts as your battery.

Myth: 

Solar systems require expensive batteries. 

Myth: 

Solar panels do not work in cold weather.

Truth:

Solar panels like sunlight but not heat. Solar cell efficiency increases in cooler temperatures. 

Myth: 

Solar panels will be damaged by hail. 

Truth:

Solar panels are covered by tempered glass, making them capable of withstanding the impact of large pieces of hail. In addition, solar panels are normally mounted on an angle which prevents the panel from receiving a direct blow from the falling hail. 

Myth:

Solar panels will damage the roof.

Truth:

When properly installed, solar panels will protect the roof. Some homes note the rooms under the solar system are warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.