Misconceptions about solar energy hinder UK adoption study

A new study by Solar Together has uncovered that misconceptions about solar energy are hindering the adoption of renewable energy solutions in homes across the United Kingdom.

The research revealed that over 60% of British citizens believe that the public is not sufficiently informed about renewable energy options available for residences. Additionally, two-thirds of the surveyed population indicated they would be more inclined to adopt renewable energy if the information on how to transition were more accessible.

A notable myth identified by the study is the belief held by one-third of Brits that the UK's cloudy climate is unsuitable for effective solar panel operation. Despite prevalent assumptions, data analysis demonstrates that solar panels can indeed function efficiently in Britain. This misunderstanding is compounded by the perception of solar panel installation as a complex process and misconceptions about the cost-effectiveness of solar energy.

Solar Together has sought to clarify and debunk the top five myths surrounding solar energy use in the UK. Contrary to the belief that solar panels have a payback period exceeding 15 years, the actual period ranges between six to ten years. Additionally, it is a common but incorrect belief that solar panels cease functioning during typical British winters or only perform effectively in sunny conditions.

The study found that more than one in five people do not believe solar panels can help save on energy bills, even though households with solar panels can save up to GBP £500 annually. Furthermore, solar panels generate energy by capturing sunlight, not heat, meaning they can still be effective on colder or cloudier days. They actually perform optimally in temperatures between 1C and 20C.

George Frost, UK Country Manager at iChoosr, the organisation behind Solar Together's group-buying schemes, stated, "This study highlights the urgent need for better education and clearer communication about renewable energy in the UK. By making information more accessible and addressing common misconceptions, we can encourage more people to adopt renewable energy solutions and contribute to the UK's net-zero goals."

Frost noted that a significant portion of the public finds the current messaging around renewables overly complicated or confusing, necessitating efforts to simplify information and demonstrate the advantages of renewable energy across the UK.

The study also indicated that around 42% of respondents feel renewable energy discussions are absent from family conversations, and 35% believe that the lack of education on this topic in schools contributes to the public's unawareness. Additionally, 36% mentioned the rarity of renewable energy topics in television content, and 24% attributed this lack of discourse to celebrities not discussing renewables enough.

Since 2015, iChoosr has worked with UK councils through Solar Together schemes to foster a nationwide transition to renewable energy, reportedly resulting in over 42,500 solar installations to date. This effort represents a considerable impact, with anticipated reductions of more than 680,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over the next 25 years.