Misinformation about solar energy has been spreading nationally, even making it here to Alabama where some spread falsehoods aiming to halt solar projects in Montgomery and Lawrence counties. While it is understandable that some have fear of a new project or of the unknown, Energy Alabama believes it is essential to address these myths with facts.
Understanding and debunking the myths surrounding solar energy is crucial for the growth of clean energy initiatives in Alabama. Below are nine common myths about solar energy and the facts that debunk them, shedding light on the truth behind solar power.
Myth 1: Solar Projects Don’t Benefit Local Economies
Fact: Solar projects significantly boost local economies through increased tax revenues. The ad valorem taxes generated by solar installations benefit county governments, schools, and other local entities. This influx of revenue can support essential services and infrastructure, fostering community development and prosperity.
For example, the Black Bear Solar project in Alabama, a partnership between the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) and Lightsource bp, will contribute over $7 million in property tax revenue to county schools over its project life. This project, located in Montgomery County, created more than 400 construction jobs, the majority of which were filled by local workers. It is expected to save AMEA a minimum of $40 million over 20 years and provide enough electricity to power 20,000 homes. In Wisconsin, the Koshkonong Solar project is expected to create 600 construction jobs and 25 long-term local jobs, alongside generating over $150 million in new local earnings and landowner payments. The Oxbow Solar Project in Louisiana will create approximately 400 local construction jobs and provide more than $30 million in new revenue for local government agencies over the next 35 years, without raising taxes.
Myth 2: Solar Installations Harm Wildlife and Farmland
Fact: Solar installations are designed to be wildlife-friendly. Many solar developers collaborate with local sheep ranchers to manage vegetation naturally, avoiding the use of toxic herbicides. This not only supports agricultural activities but can also create a habitat for pollinators like honey bees when pollinator-friendly crops are planted around the solar sites. These practices enhance the environmental benefits of solar farms, making them a boon rather than a bane to local ecosystems.
In a 2023 study done by the Tennessee Legislature, it was found that even if all planned solar for TVA were placed in Tennessee, only 1% of the state’s farmland would be used. In comparison, 9.3% has been lost to other developments, including real estate. Additionally, The Truth About Solar: Addressing Common Myths, which is the practice of integrating solar panels with agriculture, allows for dual use of land for both energy production and farming. This innovative approach can enhance crop yields, reduce water usage, and provide additional income for farmers while still maintaining the land’s agricultural purpose!
Myth 3: Solar Panels are Manufactured Abroad, Not Benefiting Local Workers
Fact: Most solar panels are manufactured abroad but a significant and growing portion of solar panels are now manufactured in the United States, even here in Alabama. Companies like First Solar and Runergy are building manufacturing facilities in Alabama, providing good wages to local workers. This domestic production supports the U.S. economy and ensures high-quality manufacturing standards for solar panels.
Myth 4: Solar Energy Produced Here Doesn’t Benefit Local Consumers
Fact: Each solar project is different. Some are built for specific companies while others are built for the benefit of all utility customers in the area in which the project is constructed. Most solar in Alabama Power’s territory has been to benefit only a small number of large corporations, like Walmart. Even when solar projects are only built to sell to one company, the local community still reaps the benefit of increased tax revenue from the project.
But, Energy Alabama agrees that this is a real problem because solar is now the cheapest source of new electricity and should be for the benefit of all customers too. But rather than trying to block a particular project, advocacy would be better placed on fixing the poor rules and regulations of the Alabama Public Service Commission, which have created this perverse environment.
Myth 5: Landowners are Forced to Lease or Sell Land for Solar Projects
Fact: Participation in solar projects is entirely voluntary for landowners. In Alabama, unlike the compulsory acquisition (also known as eminent domain) for gas pipelines or highways, landowners choose to sell or lease their land for solar development. This autonomy ensures that only willing participants are involved in these projects.
Myth 6: Solar Projects Lead to Permanent Loss of Farmland
Fact: Contracts for solar projects typically include provisions for restoring the land to its original state if the project is not renewed after its initial term. Moreover, the greatest threat to farmland loss is residential and commercial real estate development.
If a solar project is proposed in your community, be sure to check that a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) is being developed! A CBA will protect your community and its future environmental health.
Myth 7: Solar Panels Cannot Be Recycled
Fact: Solar panels are recyclable, and an emerging industry in the U.S. specializes in recycling solar components. With a life expectancy of around 20 years, solar panels can be responsibly recycled at the end of their operational life, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Solar panels are primarily composed of glass and aluminum, both of which are materials with well-established recycling processes.
Additionally, the metals used in solar panels, such as silver and copper, can also be recovered and reused. This ensures that the valuable materials in solar panels do not go to waste and can be reused for future generations and contributes to sustainability.
Myth 8: Solar Installations Emit Harmful Radiation
Fact: Solar installations do not emit significant amounts of radiation. The radiation exposure from standing near a solar panel is negligible compared to everyday sources like kitchen appliances. Thus, concerns about radiation from solar farms are unfounded.
Myth 9: Solar Projects Cause Toxic Runoff
Fact: Properly managed solar projects do not produce toxic runoff. During construction, these projects adhere to strict regulations, including permits from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) to manage water and other discharges, ensuring minimal environmental impact. When solar projects do not meet these standards, they can (and should be) fined.
