Solar Myths vs. Facts
AllSeason Solar addresses the truth about solar energy and how rising electric bills are changing the energy conversation in South Jersey
Many South Jersey homeowners are looking for ways to stabilize long-term energy costs. Solar energy has become a common solution across our region, yet misconceptions about cost, weather and home value still prevent some homeowners from exploring the option.
Common myths AllSeason Solar hears from South Jersey residents and the facts behind them
Myth 1: “Solar doesn’t work well in cloudy places.”
Fact: Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunshine.
South Jersey Angle: New Jersey averages roughly 4.2 peak sun hours per day, which supports strong annual solar production.
Proof: On cloudy days, solar panels can still produce 10–30% of their normal output.
Myth 2: “Solar panels will damage my roof.”
Fact: Modern solar mounting systems are engineered to protect the roof and are designed to prevent leaks.
South Jersey Angle: Solar installations must pass local township permitting and inspection before they can be activated.
Proof: In many cases, the panels help shield portions of the roof from direct sun exposure and weather.
Myth 3: “Solar will decrease my home’s value.”
Fact: Homes with solar systems often sell for more than comparable homes without solar.
South Jersey Angle: Buyers value homes with lower utility costs and energy-efficient upgrades already installed.
Proof: Studies suggest homes with solar can sell for roughly 4–10% more on average, which may translate to tens of thousands of dollars in additional value for a typical New Jersey home. In addition, New Jersey exempts solar systems from property tax assessments, meaning homeowners gain the value without increasing their property taxes.
Myth 4: “Solar costs too much upfront.”
Fact: State and federal incentives can significantly reduce the real cost of installing solar in New Jersey.
South Jersey Angle: Homeowners may qualify for the 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit, along with New Jersey’s SuSI incentive program, which provides payments for the electricity a system generates for up to 15 years.
Proof: For many homes, these incentives can substantially reduce the overall investment while helping offset thousands of dollars in electricity costs over time.
Myth 5: “Snow stops solar panels from working.”
Fact: Solar panels are installed at angles that allow snow to slide off naturally.
South Jersey Angle: Snowfall in South Jersey is usually temporary, meaning panels are rarely covered for long periods.
Proof: Cold temperatures can improve solar efficiency, and production losses from snow are typically minimal over the course of the year.
Where Solar Performs Well in South Jersey
Solar production varies depending on roof direction, shade and electricity usage, but homes across the region can offset a large portion of their annual electricity consumption with properly designed systems.
County Typical Electricity Offset Potential
Atlantic 80–95%
Cape May 80–95%
Ocean 75–90%
Camden 70–85%
Gloucester 70–85%
Homes in coastal South Jersey often benefit from open sky exposure and favorable sunlight conditions, which can support strong solar performance.
What Your Electric Bill Could Cost Over 25 Years
Most solar systems last 25–30 years, which means homeowners will likely pay their utility company for decades if nothing changes.
Monthly Electric Bill 25-Year Cost (Flat Rates) 25-Year Cost (3–4% Avg Increase)
$150 $45,000 ~$71,000
$250 $75,000 ~$118,000
$350 $105,000 ~$165,000
For many homeowners, the real question becomes:
Who will you pay for electricity over the next 25 years—the utility company, or your own energy system?
What About My Roof?
Because solar systems typically last 25–30 years, installers usually evaluate the condition of a roof before installation to ensure it can support the system long term.
For homes that may need roofing work, some companies offer integrated roofing and solar services, allowing homeowners to replace an aging roof and install solar as part of one coordinated project.
If a roof replacement becomes necessary, solar panels can also be safely removed and reinstalled during roofing work.
Planning roofing and solar together helps protect both the home’s structure and the long-term energy investment.
A Local Example
A homeowner in Atlantic County recently installed a solar system designed to match their household electricity usage. During the first year, the system offset about 90% of the home’s annual electricity consumption, helping stabilize energy costs despite rising utility rates.
Stories like this are becoming increasingly common as homeowners across South Jersey explore solar as a way to take greater control of their energy expenses.
Curious What Solar Could Look Like for Your Home?
Every home is different. Roof direction, energy usage and available incentives all affect potential savings.
Homeowners interested in learning more about solar potential for their property can explore available incentives and request a local solar evaluation to better understand:
• Potential energy savings
• System size for their home
• Svailable state and federal incentives
• Estimated long-term return on investment
Understanding the facts is the first step toward deciding whether solar makes sense for your home.
AllSeason Solar
(888) 832-5050
