Solar PV panels, also known as photovoltaic or PV panels, will last more than 25 years. In fact, many solar panels installed as early as the 80s are still working at expected capacity. Not only are solar panels remarkably reliable, solar panel durability and efficiency has increased dramatically over the last 20 years.
We now see power outputs up to 600kw per solar pv panels. In the early days most were limited to 250kw. With the development of technology solar is now the most affordable type of energy for the home.
The industry standard for the lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years. However, a solar panel won’t die after 25-30 years – rather, its power output will decrease a significant amount below what the manufacturer projected.
The amount of power output loss over time is called the degradation rate. The median solar panel degradation rate is about 0.5%-1.5%, which simply means that a solar panel’s energy production will decrease at a rate of 0.5% per year. So, after 20 years, your panels should still be working at about 90% of its original output.
There are a few factors that can affect the lifespan of solar panels, such as:
- The quality of the solar panels
- The installation location
- The amount of sunlight exposure
- The climate
- The maintenance and cleaning
Overall, solar panels are a very durable and long-lasting investment. They can generate clean energy for decades, helping you save money on your electricity bills and reduce your environmental impact.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the lifespan of solar panels:
- Most solar panel manufacturers offer a production warranty that guarantees that your panels will produce a certain amount of electricity for a certain number of years. This warranty can be a valuable way to protect your investment.
- Even after the warranty period expires, solar panels can continue to produce electricity, albeit at a lower rate.
- As solar technology continues to improve, the lifespan of solar panels is likely to increase.
If you are considering installing solar panels, it is important to factor in the lifespan of the panels into your decision. Solar panels can be a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your environmental impact, and they can last for many years.
