An important question most homeowners ask before going solar is “How long do solar panels last?” This is an important detail when considering the costs of investing in solar energy. You don’t want to invest in a product that won’t last through its payback period.
Thankfully, solar panels last for decades. But what causes solar panel to degrade? And why is it important to consider the difference between solar panel lifespan and production life, as well as the warranties that guarantee this production?
Solar panels have become a popular alternative energy source in recent years, and with good reason. They offer numerous benefits such as cost savings, reduced environmental impact, and increased energy independence. However, many people are still curious about their lifespan and how long they can last. In this blog post, we will explore how long solar panels last and what factors can affect their lifespan.
The typical lifespan of a solar panel is around 25-30 years. However, many panels can last longer than this, with some still functioning after 30 years. This long lifespan is since solar panels are made with durable materials that are designed to withstand the elements.
One of the primary factors that affect the lifespan of a solar panel is the quality of its manufacturing. High-quality panels that are made with top-grade materials will typically last longer than those made with lower-grade materials. This is because higher-grade materials can better withstand the effects of weathering, temperature changes, and other environmental factors.
Another factor that can affect the lifespan of a solar panel is the environment in which it is installed. Panels that are installed in areas with harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, may experience more wear and tear than those installed in milder climates. Additionally, panels that are exposed to excessive heat or cold may experience degradation of their components, which can shorten their lifespan.
Proper maintenance can also play a role in extending the lifespan of a solar panel. Regular cleaning, inspection, and repair of any damage can help keep panels functioning optimally and prevent premature degradation.
It's worth noting that even after a solar panel reaches the end of its useful life, it may still be recyclable. Many of the materials used in the production of solar panels, such as silicon, can be recycled and repurposed for future use.
SOLAR PANEL LIFE EXPECTANCY VS PRODUCTION LIFESPAN
When considering how long solar panels last, it’s important to distinguish between a solar panel’s production lifespan and the life expectancy of the solar panel itself.
A solar panel’s life expectancy is how long the solar panel will continue to produce power. Solar panel production lifespan is how long a solar panel will produce a certain amount of its original power output.
The standard production lifespan of a solar panel is about 20 to 25 years. Solar panel manufacturers typically warranty their solar panels for 25 years. These warranties guarantee that your solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their original power production, generally 80% or more, after the 25-year warranty period has passed.
For example, a 415-Watt solar panel would be guaranteed to produce at least 330-Watts (80% of original output) at the end of the 25-year warranty period.
Solar panel manufacturers also typically offer equipment warranties that cover any damages to the solar panels themselves, such as any manufacturing defects. These warranties help ensure your solar panels will remain in service and continue to justify your investment.
WHY DO SOLAR PANELS DEGRADE?
Although solar panels often come with a 25-to-30-year warranty, the energy production after that time will be lower. This is due to both natural and unnatural degradation of solar panels over time.
Solar panels naturally degrade over time due to exposure to UV rays and weather cycles. While UV rays are a part of sunlight, they are not beneficial to solar panels. UV rays do not contribute to energy production, and they produce heat. Heat decreases the efficiency of panels, decreases energy production, and degrade solar cells and backseats over time.
Solar panels are also degraded by weather cycles, such as hot summers and cold winters. Constant changes in weather conditions and the natural cycles of climates can degrade solar panels over time.
Solar panels can also degrade due to unnatural causes. These causes are largely caused by humans, such as improper installation or improper care of solar panels.
SOLAR PANELS LAST LONG AFTER WARRANTY
What happens after a solar panel manufacturer warranty has expired? Do the solar panels stop working? Do they degrade quicker?
No, solar panels generally continue producing long after their warranty has expired. The life expectancy of a solar panel can be decades after the warranty has expired.
As you can see, while solar panels might only have a 25-year warranty, their valuable working life expectancy is well past the initial guarantee.
CAN YOU EXTEND SOLAR PANEL LIFESPAN?
Solar panels are very robust pieces of equipment. Because they have no moving parts, solar panels require very little maintenance and don’t suffer from frequent breakdowns, like other energy sources.
But while solar panels hardly ever require maintenance, there are steps you can take to ensure you solar panels have a long and healthy lifespan.
- Ensure you are buying high-quality solar panels from a reputable solar company. Make sure your solar panels are from a solar manufacturer that has a good reputation and a strong warranty to back their equipment.
- Work with a solar company you can trust. Do your research and ensure the solar company has a good track record of installing, maintaining, and repairing their solar installations, as well as maintaining a good relationship with their customers long after the installation is complete.
- Clean your solar panels on a regular basis. While rain will often take care of dust and debris, it’s still a good idea to clean your solar panels more thoroughly regularly. It’s important to clean your solar panels properly.
- Monitor your solar production and look over your solar panels regularly. Most solar panel installations come with a monitoring package, allowing you to see your solar production in realtime on your phone or computer. If you notice your solar panels aren’t producing as much as they used to, or you see any potential equipment issues, contact your solar company.
SO, HOW LONG DO SOLAR PANELS REALLY LAST?
While most solar panels have a 25-to-30-year warranty, those solar panels will continue to produce electricity long after the warranty has expired. These warranties are solely a guarantee that your solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their original power output.
The true-life expectancy of your solar panels can be decades beyond the solar warranty. And with the average production degradation being just 0.5% per year, you can expect strong production for decades to come.
In conclusion, solar panels can last anywhere from 25-30 years, depending on various factors. High-quality manufacturing, proper installation and maintenance, and a favourable environment can all help extend the lifespan of a solar panel. While the initial investment in solar panels may seem high, their long lifespan and energy-saving benefits make them a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on energy costs.