Demystifying solar power: Common myths and misconceptions

The solar revolution isn’t coming, it’s already here. In 2024 alone, it accounted for two-thirds of the world’s new electricity capacity, a staggering milestone that would have seemed impossible just fifteen years ago. Indeed, across rooftops in Malta, fields in Germany and deserts in Chile, the sun is being harnessed at a scale and a cost that is reshaping the entire global energy system.

And yet, despite the progress, myths persist. Misconceptions about cost, efficiency, reliability and environmental impact continue to circulate in comment sections, around kitchen tables and even in policy chambers. These myths have real consequences ranging from delaying decisions, discouraging investment and slowing the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy.

So we’ve done the deep work to address the most common solar myths once and for all.

Let’s separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1: Solar panels don’t work in cloudy or mild climates

This is probably the most common misconception and an understandable one. Many people still associate solar power with blazing sunshine and desert landscapes.

The reality is far more flexible.

Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not heat. This means they continue to produce energy even when skies are overcast. In fact, heat is the enemy of efficiency since when panel temperatures rise above 25°C (77°F), electrical output begins to decline thanks to a phenomenon known as the temperature coefficient effect.

Looking at real-world examples makes this even clearer. Some of the world’s leading solar countries, such as Germany and the Netherlands, receive significantly less sunlight than Mediterranean regions like Malta, yet still achieve widespread solar adoption.
Malta, in contrast, benefits from one of the highest solar irradiation levels in Europe, making it an ideal environment for PV systems. Even during winter months or cloudy days, solar panels continue to generate electricity reliably.

Real-world proof: Germany, the world’s fifth-largest economy, generates roughly 12% of its annual electricity from solar despite having a climate similar to southern Canada. In 2024, solar surpassed coal in EU electricity generation for the first time — an extraordinary achievement in a region far from the equator. Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands all operate substantial solar installations and continue to expand them aggressively.

What about clouds? Diffuse light, in other words, the scattered sunlight you experience on an overcast day still activates solar panels. On a heavily clouded day, output drops significantly (to roughly 10–25% of peak capacity), but it doesn’t drop to zero. For annual energy calculations, which is how solar return on investment is properly assessed, the output on cloudy days is factored in from the beginning. A system sized correctly for its location accounts for seasonal and weather variation.

Take a look at why PV panels are key to sustainable energy.

Takeaway: Solar doesn’t need perfect weather, it just needs daylight.

Myth 2: Solar energy is too expensive to install

There’s a lingering belief that solar is only for large budgets. This may have been true 15–20 years ago, but today’s reality looks very different.

The cost of solar technology has dropped dramatically over the past decade, while efficiency has improved. According to IRENA’s (International Renewable Energy Agency) Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2024 report, the global weighted average total installed cost of utility-scale solar PV fell 87% between 2010 and 2024. And according to other global energy studies, solar is now one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity generation available.

But the real value isn’t just the installation cost, but the long-term savings.

A typical household system can:

• Reduce electricity bills significantly
• Pay for itself over several years
• Provide decades of low-cost electricity afterward

In Malta, where electricity prices are relatively stable, solar still offers a clear financial advantage by reducing your dependence on grid electricity. Many homeowners now view solar not as an expense, but as a long-term financial strategy. And with flexible financing options, including monthly payment plans and government incentives, switching to solar is more accessible than ever.

Need more convincing? Here are six reasons to switch to solar energy.

Takeaway: Solar is less about cost and more about long-term savings.

Myth 3: Solar panels require constant maintenance

This myth tends to worry people who prefer low-effort home systems. The good news? Solar is one of the simplest technologies you can install.

A well-installed solar PV system has no moving parts and therefore no mechanical wear. There is no combustion, no lubrication, no fuel supply to manage. The primary maintenance requirement is periodic cleaning to remove dust, bird droppings or debris that can shade the panel surface — typically once or twice per year in most climates. In a Mediterranean climate like Malta, dust and salt air can occasionally affect panel surfaces, but this is easily managed with periodic cleaning.

Beyond cleaning, an occasional inspection of wiring, inverters and mounting hardware is recommended every few years. Inverters, the units that convert DC solar electricity into AC for household use, are the most likely component to require replacement, typically having a 10–15 year lifespan compared to the 25–30 year lifespan of the panels themselves.

Modern systems are also equipped with monitoring software which provide real-time generation data via smartphone apps, allowing homeowners to immediately identify any underperformance.

Here is how solar panel maintenance can be made easy.

Takeaway: Solar systems are designed to be “set and forget,” not high-maintenance equipment.

Myth 4: Solar panels don’t last very long

This myth has a kernel of historical truth. Early, thin-film panels of the 2000s sometimes underperformed expectations, but modern solar technology is far more durable and reliable.

Today’s solar panels are built for longevity. Most systems, including those offered by GO Energi, come with performance warranties of 25–30 years, typically guaranteeing that panels will still produce at least 80% of their original output after 25 years.

And in practice, performance often exceeds expectations. Real-world data supports this, with research from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that systems installed after 2017 degrade at an average rate of just 0.6% per year. This means a panel could still be operating at around 85% of its original output after 25 years.

In other words, solar panels don’t suddenly “wear out”, but gradually and predictably decline in performance over time, much like any long-term asset.

Takeaway: Solar panels are a long-term investment, not a short-term solution.

Myth 5: Solar energy is unreliable because it depends on the sun

Yes, solar depends on sunlight, but that does not mean your electricity supply becomes unreliable.

Modern solar systems are typically connected to:

• The national grid
• Battery storage systems
• Smart energy management systems

This means energy is always available, even at night or during periods of low sunlight.

During the day, solar often produces peak energy exactly when demand is highest, especially in hot climates like Malta.

When paired with battery storage, solar becomes even more powerful, allowing homeowners to store excess energy and use it later, specifically during a power cut.

Already own solar panels? Take a look at why you should upgrade your inverter and battery for efficiency.

Takeaway: Solar doesn’t replace reliability, it enhances it.

Myth 6: Solar panels are bad for the environment because of manufacturing

This myth comes from a partial truth. Solar panels do require energy and materials to manufacture, however, what’s often overlooked is the full lifecycle picture.

Studies consistently show that solar panels “pay back” their environmental impact surprisingly quickly. In other words, they generate enough clean energy within a few years to offset the energy used to produce them. After that point, they continue producing electricity for decades with little to no environmental impact.

In fact, research shows that most solar panels recover their energy footprint in well under two years and often in less than one. For example, a 2024 study by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) found that large-scale solar systems can repay their manufacturing energy in as little as seven months.

Once installed, solar systems generate energy without:

• Carbon dioxide emissions
• Air pollution
• Fuel consumption
• Noise pollution

Compared to fossil fuels, the environmental benefits of solar are substantial over its lifetime. One of the clearest ways to see this is by looking at the carbon intensity of different energy sources.

• Coal-fired power: ~820g CO₂e/kWh
• Gas combined-cycle: ~490g CO₂e/kWh
• Utility-scale solar PV: ~33–50g CO₂e/kWh

Solar isn’t completely zero-carbon when you factor in manufacturing, transport and installation, but it’s dramatically lower in emissions than any fossil fuel alternative. Over the lifetime of a system, that difference adds up in a meaningful way.

Takeaway: Solar is one of the fastest ways to reduce long-term environmental impact.

Myth 7: Solar panels take up too much space

Many people assume you need large open fields or industrial roofs to make solar worthwhile. In reality, most residential systems are designed to fit comfortably on standard rooftops. Even modest roof space can support a system that significantly reduces electricity bills.
In densely built environments, such as parts of Malta, rooftop solar is particularly effective because it uses existing space without requiring additional land.

According to the International Solar Energy Society (ISES), fully decarbonising an advanced economy using solar and wind would require roughly 40–80 square metres of solar panels per person, depending on location. That’s still far less land than what is typically used per person for agriculture in developed countries.

Takeaway: Solar adapts to your space and not the other way around.

Myth 8: Solar panels reduce property value

Solar panels typically increase property value and rarely cause structural issues when properly installed, so much so that homes with solar installations often:

• Sell faster
• Attract more interest
• Achieve higher valuations

This is because buyers are increasingly energy-conscious and aware of long-term electricity costs. And ultimately, a home with lower energy bills is simply more attractive.

On roof damage: professional installation by a qualified installer presents minimal structural risk. Installers conduct a detailed roof assessment before installation to verify load-bearing capacity and existing structural condition. Meanwhile, modern mounting systems are designed to distribute weight effectively and seal around roof penetrations watertight.

On aesthetics: modern solar panel design has evolved enormously. All-black panels with non-reflective glass have a significantly more discreet appearance than older blue-cell panels.

Takeaway: Solar is increasingly seen as a property upgrade, not a liability.

About GO Energi

GO Energi provides complete solar photovoltaic solutions in Malta and Gozo, helping homes and businesses transition to clean, renewable energy. Our systems include solar panels, inverters and battery storage options, along with support for government incentives and flexible payment plans designed to make solar more accessible.

By combining technical expertise with tailored system design, GO Energi helps customers reduce electricity costs, improve energy independence and make the most of Malta’s strong solar potential.

Solar energy is one of the most proven, reliable and accessible clean technologies available today. Yet myths and outdated assumptions still prevent many people from exploring it fully. Once you separate fact from fiction, solar becomes much less complicated and far more compelling. Whether you’re motivated by savings, sustainability or energy independence, solar is no longer a future option, but a very practical present-day solution.

Take a look at how GO Energi can help you harness the sun’s power.

Frequently asked questions about solar energy in Malta

1. Is solar power worth it in Malta?
Yes, Malta is one of the best locations in Europe for solar energy due to its high levels of sunshine throughout the year. A well-installed solar PV system can significantly reduce electricity bills and provide long-term savings, making it a worthwhile investment for both homes and businesses.

2. How much can I save with solar panels?
Savings depend on your energy usage and system size, but many households reduce their electricity bills by 50–90%. Over time, this can translate into substantial financial savings, especially as electricity prices rise.

3. How long does it take to recover the cost of a solar system?
In many cases, solar systems pay for themselves within 5–10 years. After that, the electricity generated is essentially free for the remainder of the system’s lifespan, which can exceed 25 years.

4. Can solar panels power my entire home?
Yes, depending on the system size and your energy consumption. Many homes can cover a large portion or even all of their electricity needs with solar, especially when combined with battery storage.

5. How do I know what size solar system I need?
The right system size depends on your electricity usage, roof space and energy goals. A professional assessment helps determine the most efficient setup.

Sources:
Renewable capacity highlights
Solar power in Germany – output, business & persepctives
Solar overtakes coal in EU power sector, as gas declines for the fifth year in a row
Renewal power generation costs in 2024
Scientists were wrong about how fast solar panels degrade – they may last twice as long