At Swiss Solar Tech, we’ve seen an increase in online skepticism about solar energy lately—from questions about contracts to claims that solar is a scam. As a local company operating in the Okanagan since 2001, we welcome these questions and want to set the record straight.
There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and we believe that transparency and education are the best responses. So, let’s tackle some of the most common solar myths head-on and explain what’s true, what’s exaggerated, and what you need to know if you’re considering solar in BC.
Myth #1: "Solar is a scam."
Fact: Solar energy is a well-established, clean technology supported by BC Hydro, FortisBC, and Natural Resources Canada. In BC, residents in Peachland and West Kelowna can even access rebates through BC Hydro to reduce installation costs. Like any industry, there may be bad actors—but reputable companies like Swiss Solar Tech offer full transparency, custom quotes, and have operated for decades in your community.
Myth #2: Solar companies hide their contracts."
Fact: Solar contracts aren’t “secret”—they’re customized. Because every system depends on your roof, energy usage, and budget, no one-size-fits-all pricing applies. Swiss Solar Tech ensures every client receives a detailed proposal before anything is signed, outlining products, labor, warranties, and costs. We encourage questions and full clarity up front. And we urge clients to take advantage of our free on-site solar evaluations and assessments, so we have all the site-specific information in order to provide you with a proposal that includes everything.
Myth #3: "You get paid to go solar."
Fact: While some U.S. or international ads might say “get paid to go solar,” that’s misleading in Canada. In BC, net metering allows you to earn energy credits for excess solar energy that you produce and send back to the grid. These credits are used when your system produces less (like in winter). You’re not getting a cash payout—but you are significantly reducing your hydro bill.
Myth #4: "Solar power isn't really green."
Fact: While solar panel manufacturing does require energy, the carbon payback period (the time it takes a panel to offset its manufacturing emissions) is about 2–3 years. After that, the system produces clean, renewable energy for 25+ years. That’s a huge reduction in your household or business’s carbon footprint. We have seen solar PV panels that are still producing 80% output after 45 years.
Myth #5: "Solar panels don't work in cloudy weather or winter."
Fact: Solar panels still generate power in cloudy weather—just less than on sunny days. In BC, especially in the South Okanagan, summer sun provides plenty of power that can be stored as credits via net metering for winter use. Our systems are sized to meet yearly demand, not just sunny days.
Myth #6: "One hailstorm and you're toast."
Fact: This is a common concern—but modern panels are tested to withstand hail up to 25 mm (1 inch) at high speed. Swiss Solar Tech installs high-quality, impact-resistant Tier 1 panels designed for real-world Canadian weather. In fact, we’ve found that panels often protect the roof beneath from damage. Plus, most home insurance policies cover hail damage if it ever does occur. (Those panels are available, but at an additional cost)
Myth #7: "Solar is too expensive."
Fact: The cost of solar systems has dropped more than 50% in the last decade. With interest-free loans up to $40,000 available in BC (through the Greener Homes program), and rebates of up to $5,000 in BC Hydro-serviced areas like Peachland and West Kelowna, solar is more accessible than ever. Plus, once installed, solar systems drastically cut electricity bills—paying for themselves over time.
Myth #8: "You have to go completely off-grid."
Fact: Not at all. Most of our residential and commercial customers use grid-tied systems, meaning you’re still connected to FortisBC or BC Hydro, but supplement your usage with clean solar energy. You produce what you can, use it when needed, and draw from the grid only when necessary—seamlessly.
We don't overpromise, and we don't mislead
Solar energy is a smart, sustainable investment—but only when done right. At Swiss Solar Tech, we’ve proudly installed hundreds of custom solar systems throughout Penticton, Summerland, Peachland, Kaleden, Naramata, Oliver, Osoyoos, West Kelowna, Kelowna and beyond. Talk to us about booking a project in your region.
We provide straightforward assessments, honest pricing, and exceptional customer support. While we do not complete rebate applications on your behalf, we’re happy to guide you to the right resources, including BC Hydro and federal programs.
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📞 Call: 250-404-0490
📧 Email: info@swisssolartech.com
🌐 Visit: www.swisssolartech.com
Let’s create a solar solution that fits your home and your future