Common solar power myths busted
When it comes to solar power, it’s important to separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Solar panels don’t work when it’s cloudy
The energy captured by your solar panels is solar radiation (sunlight) generated by the sun. Solar panels will still work when the weather is less desirable, for example if it’s raining or overcast, as there is still some form of light, however the solar panels will still perform with lower production. This is what makes Queensland such a good place to install solar.
Myth 2: You can’t use solar power at night
While solar panels aren’t effective at night, a simple installation of a home battery will allow you to use stored energy generated during the day. Opting for a home battery allows you to utilise energy generated during peak consumption hours in the middle of the day, meaning you can shave even more off your energy bill.
Myth 3: The costs outweigh the benefit
Every home is unique, so it’s important to get the right panels suited to your property. Speaking to a professional installer, like RACQ Solar will ensure you choose the right system which produces sufficient solar power for your needs. Variables when installing solar include number and size of panels, shading, aspect; how much energy the home uses during the day and at night; and what the owner’s power bill and tariffs are.
If your solar system is producing a lot of energy and you have low power consumption, you could sell excess energy to the grid – particularly if you’re storing excess energy in a home battery.
From 1 July 2025, homeowners can also access the Australian Government’s new Cheaper Home Batteries Program, aimed at making solar batteries more affordable, reducing energy costs and emissions.
Myth 4: They require a lot of maintenance
Solar panels are exposed to natural elements, which can impact the performance over time. However, they can be cleaned with soap and water twice per year and still operate effectively. Property owners with systems around four or five years old can also enquire about receiving a solar health check from their provider to ensure their system is maximising its energy output.
Myth 5: Solar panels are risky in cyclone-prone regions of Queensland
A solar system and specifically the racking and mounting systems need to be installed to suit the wind load region of the area. All racking systems have certification to withstand severe storms. All panels and racking systems need to be approved by the Clean Energy Council, with demonstrated testing to ensure the panels can withstand Australia's harsh environments.
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Things to note
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RACQ Operations Pty Ltd (ABN 80 009 663 414 AR 000234978) and Members Travel Group Pty Ltd (ABN 45 144 538 803 AR 000432492) are acting as an Authorised Representative of the issuer of the insurance, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548). Any advice set out above is general in nature only, and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before purchasing any travel products, please consider the RACQ Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and the Target Market Determinations (TMDs) that apply to these products. Whilst the PDS outlines the Terms and Conditions of these products, the TMDs outline the intended class of customers that comprise the target market for these travel products. This will allow you to consider which products best suit your objectives, financial situation and needs and consider the products appropriateness to your personal circumstances. TMDs also outline matters involving the distribution and the review of these products. The PDS, Supplementary PDS and TMDs for each travel product can be found here.