In a context of rising energy prices, solar panels are experiencing growing success in France. It must be said that this choice of self-consumption presents considerable advantages both economically and environmentally… As long as you don’t fall into the trap. Beyond preconceived ideas, dishonest actors are taking advantage of this craze to increase the number of scam attempts. To avoid being fooled, Hellio helps you distinguish real information from false information about solar panels.
Short lifespan, expensive maintenance, lack of profitability, high environmental impact… The clichés about solar panels die hard, even if most are completely wrong. If this source of renewable energy has been so popular with the French in recent years, it is no coincidence: it offers numerous economic and ecological advantages. But to understand all the advantages of solar panels, you still need to know what is true and what is false. Follow the leader !
Instructions for use and preconceived ideas about solar panels
Before embarking on a solar panel installation project, we advise you first to find out about this technology in order to overcome preconceived ideas. To help you, we have compiled the most common clichés about solar panels:
- There is only one type of solar panel : this is false, there are mainly three types. Photovoltaic solar panels produce electricity, solar thermal panels produce heat, and hybrid solar panels produce electricity and heat simultaneously.
- Solar panels are overpriced : this needs to be qualified. Although their installation represents an investment of several thousand euros, it pays off on average after 10 to 15 years. In addition, it is possible to benefit from a bonus from EDF Obligation d’Achat under certain conditions.
- There are solar panels for one euro : Certainly, there are many incentives for installing solar panels, but beware of false advertising and scams. The self-consumption premium does not cover more than 20% of the total cost of the installation, but is not sufficient to cover the rest. In general, watch out for prices that are too low or too high. To do this, you can request several contractors and compare quotes.
- They are useless in less sunny regions : This is false, because the sun does not need to shine all day for your panels to produce energy. They also operate under overcast skies. In addition, the heat tends to slow down the capacities of the voltaic panels, so living in the south does not only have advantages.
- Solar panels have a strong environmental impact : Certainly, solar panels require silicon and a lot of energy. However, their ecological benefit is undeniable if we compare this data to their production of green electricity. On average, it is estimated that the energy spent to manufacture them is amortized in less than three years, knowing that their lifespan is estimated between 30 and 40 years.
- These technologies can ensure energy autonomy : This is false, but you can install a storage battery to get as close as possible. You can therefore expect up to 70% reduction on your bill if you opt for self-consumption with resale of surplus energy to EDF Obligation d’Achat. But in any case, you will continue to pay electricity bills.
The ultimate guide to avoiding falling for it
The best way to avoid any unpleasant surprises during your solar panel installation project is to be accompanied by an expert in the field. If you choose Hellio to support you, you will be guaranteed not to be scammed. In addition to this, you will benefit from all the assistance provided for your installation, French brand solar panels guaranteed for 30 years, qualified RGE QualiPV installers, as well as a labor guarantee.
While waiting to take the plunge, we invite you to consult the solar booklet produced by Hellio. It lists all the tips you need to know so that your installation goes perfectly. In particular, it discusses all the steps to be planned for your project, from installation to subsidies concerning you, including the authorizations to obtain and the scams to avoid. This ultra-comprehensive guide is downloadable for free from the Hellio website.