Solar technology has advanced rapidly, yet misinformation persists. From fears about cloudy weather performance to misconceptions about maintenance, these myths continue to slow adoption. Ghana’s SREP initiative routinely educates island and mainland communities to ensure that decisions are grounded in facts rather than assumptions.

Myth 1: Solar Only Works in Direct Sunlight

Modern photovoltaic panels capture diffused sunlight and still generate power on cloudy days. While peak output occurs under direct sun, today’s systems paired with batteries supply consistent energy throughout varying weather conditions.

Myth 2: Panels Require Constant Maintenance

Routine cleaning and an annual inspection are often enough. Durable frames, tempered glass, and monitoring software help detect issues early, limiting downtime.

Myth 3: Solar Is Too Expensive

Costs have fallen dramatically. Mini-grid projects leverage bulk procurement, concessional financing, and results-based subsidies to bridge affordability gaps for households and MSMEs across lake communities.

Myth 4: Panels Damage Roofs

Certified installers use non-penetrating mounting systems for flat roofs and engineered fasteners for pitched roofs, preserving structural integrity.

Myth 5: Solar Can’t Power Productive Loads

Cold storage, irrigation pumps, welding machines, and digital classrooms are already running on hybrid solar-battery systems across the Volta Lake islands. System sizing, load management, and phased expansion make productive use cases practical.

Other myths—such as panels being ineffective after 10 years or unsafe during storms—are debunked by real data from SREP pilots. Most components have 20–25 year lifespans, and modern surge protection keeps systems resilient even during heavy rains.