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.

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 does climate affect the longevity of solar panels?

The surrounding environment and climate have a direct impact on the longevity of solar panels. Panels exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, hail, or high winds, are more susceptible to physical damage.

How efficient is a 10 year old solar panel?

Given the typical degradation rate of about 0.5–0.9% per year, a 10-year-old solar panel can be expected to retain 90–95% of its original efficiency. This means that if a solar panel started with an efficiency of 20%, it should still deliver around 18-19% efficiency after a decade. Should I Replace 15-Year-Old Solar Panels?

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.