The lifespan of a photovoltaic panel

How long do solar panels last?

Surprisingly, solar panel lifespan has always been extremely good. Given they have no moving parts, there is rarely something that can go wrong within the solar panel itself, which means they can keep generating electricity for a very long time. However, what has improved is the level a solar panel will be performing at after 25 years of usage.

What factors affect the life expectancy of solar panels?

Here are some factors that affect the life expectancy of solar panels: The quality of the solar panels themselves is a vital factor that influences their longevity. High-quality panels, manufactured with stringent quality control and premium materials, are less susceptible to degradation over time.

Are solar panels durable?

Solar panels are generally very durable. Most solar panels are designed and tested to withstand the elements like hail, high winds, and heavy snow loads. And thanks to their lack of moving parts, solar panel systems usually require little to no maintenance. Still, maintaining your solar panels can boost production.

How long should a solar panel warranty last?

Near the end of your solar panel warranty (typically ~25 years), you should assess your panels’ performance and evaluate the trade-offs of purchasing a new system. By this time, you will likely have already paid off your solar energy system and generated an abundance of power independently from the utility company.

How often do solar panels degrade?

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), solar panels will degrade by between .25% and .75% each year for an average of .5%/year. This means that after the 25-year warranty on your solar panels, you can still expect them to perform on the order of between 82.5% and 93% of the original output.

Do solar panels expire?

There is technically no expiration date on solar panels. However, over time, they naturally tend to become less efficient at producing energy. Some panels can also break due to physical damage from extreme weather conditions.