5 Common Myths About Solar Energy You Should Stop Believing

Yolandi Botes
Oct 15
3 min read

☀️ ☀️ ☀️ ☀️☀️ ☀️☀️ ☀️

Solar energy is booming across South Africa, and for good reason. With load-shedding, rising electricity costs, and growing awareness around sustainability, more households and businesses are turning to solar. But despite its popularity, a few myths still stop people from fully embracing the power of the sun. Let’s set the record straight.

🔋 Myth 1: Solar Power Doesn’t Work on Cloudy or Rainy Days

Many assume that solar panels only generate power when the sun is blazing, but that’s not true. Solar panels absorb diffused sunlight, which means they still produce electricity even when it’s cloudy or raining. Yes, output is lower on overcast days, but a properly designed system includes batteries and inverters to ensure consistent power supply.

✅ Fact: Solar energy works all year round, even in winter, as long as panels are positioned correctly and kept clean.

⚙️ Myth 2: Solar Systems Are Too Expensive

Solar used to be a costly investment, but prices have dropped dramatically over the past decade. The long-term savings on electricity bills far outweigh the initial installation cost. Many South Africans now install solar systems with financing or rent-to-own options, making it more affordable than ever.

✅ Fact: A solar setup often pays for itself within 4–7 years, depending on usage and system size. After that, your power is virtually free.

🏠 Myth 3: Solar Panels Require Constant Maintenance

Another common misconception is that solar systems need a lot of upkeep. In reality, modern solar panels are low-maintenance. They’re designed to handle South Africa’s harsh weather and typically only need to be cleaned a few times a year to remove dust or bird droppings.

✅ Fact: With proper installation, your panels can last 25 years or more, with minimal effort.

🌍 Myth 4: Solar Can’t Power an Entire Home

Many people think solar energy can only run a few lights or small appliances. That might have been true years ago, but today’s technology is far more powerful. With the right combination of panels, batteries, and inverters, a solar system can run everything from your fridge and geyser to your Wi-Fi and security systems.

✅ Fact: A full solar setup can make your home 100% energy-independent if designed correctly.

💡 Myth 5: Solar Power Isn’t Worth It Because of Load-Shedding

Some think solar power won’t help during load-shedding, but that’s exactly where it shines (literally!). A hybrid solar system with a battery backup stores excess energy during the day and supplies it when the grid goes down.

✅ Fact: Solar keeps your lights, appliances, and internet running during load-shedding - no generator noise, no diesel smell, and no stress.

☀️ The Bottom Line

Solar energy isn’t a luxury anymore, it’s a smart, sustainable solution for every South African household. With the right system, you can cut costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy reliable power year-round.

It’s time to stop believing the myths and start harnessing the energy that shines over us every single day. 🌞

Save More, Live Brighter with Orka Solar

Orka Solar, proudly based in Potchefstroom, blends engineering excellence with financial insight to deliver tailor-made solar solutions. Their goal is simple: help homeowners, businesses, and landlords save on electricity costs while gaining energy independence. From system design to installation and support, Orka Solar focuses on efficiency, reliability, and long-term value, keeping your lights on and your expenses down.