Don't be fooled by these solar energy myths

When you hear about all the benefits of solar energy, they may seem too good to be true—especially if you’re hearing about them on April 1. In the season of practical jokes, we’d love to focus more on the “practical” and clear up some of the “jokes” and misinformation you might have heard about solar energy.

Myth: You need rooftop solar panels to get the benefits of solar energy.

While rooftop solar is one way to get plugged into solar power, it’s certainly not the only one. Fortunately for the majority of Americans who can’t install rooftop solar panels because they rent or have financial or physical barriers, there are other ways to take advantage of the benefits of this ever-important renewable energy source. Alliant Energy works with the communities we serve to invest in a variety of solar projects, including utility-scale solar, community solar, and customer-hosted solar. Each of these options provides customers with solar solutions that best suit their specific situations.

Myth: Solar projects in my community will negatively impact my property value.

A common misconception surrounding utility-scale solar development is that it harms property values. You may have may heard stories on social media or in the news that solar panels and solar projects diminish a home’s value in the future. But a look at the data close to home suggests otherwise. In fact, a study conducted across Illinois determined that the value of properties within one mile increased by an average of 2% after the installation of a solar farm. Another analysis performed in Illinois and Indiana indicated that after completion of a solar farm, property values near some solar projects slightly increased.

Myth: Solar energy is expensive.

In reality, solar energy only costs 3-6 cents per kilowatt-hour, compared to 5-17 cents for traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, many new-build renewable energy projects top the list of cheapest energy options according to recent research by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Solar energy was even named the “cheapest electricity in history” in 2020 by the International Energy Agency. By incorporating solar energy into our diverse energy mix, we’re doing what’s right for our customers and communities.

Don’t be fooled by all the misinformation about solar energy! If you’re ready for more facts, check out our solar generation efforts.