Solar panels play a crucial role in our transition to sustainable energy. Typically, they have a lifespan of about 25 to 30 years.
While their efficiency in converting sunlight into energy may decrease over time, they will not stop working entirely.
Even after 30 years, they can still generate power, albeit at a lower rate than when they were new.
This article will explore the factors that impact the longevity of solar panels and how we can optimise their usage for a greener future.
What Type of Solar Panels Have The Longer Lifespan?
While most solar panels share similar characteristics, the quality of the product significantly influences their longevity.
Solar panels are typically categorised into three tiers:
- Tier One
- Tier Two
- Tier Three
Tier One manufacturers, known for their high-quality products and services, stable financial background, and a minimum of five years in solar panel production, are at the top of the hierarchy.
These manufacturers adhere to more stringent standards and maintain higher efficiency after 25 years compared to their counterparts.
In addition, Tier One solar panels have an annual degradation rate of 0.30%, lower than the 0.50% and 0.80% degradation rates of Tier Two and Tier Three panels, respectively.
Monocrystalline (mono) and polycrystalline (poly) are two examples of Tier One solar panels.
Monocrystalline panels are more efficient, produce more power, and last longer. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are more affordable, but they are not as efficient and may degrade faster.
Research from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) suggests that solar panels tend to degrade by about 0.50% per year on average.
This means that after 25 years, a solar panel’s output is expected to be around 89% of its initial capacity.
How does degradation work?
How Degradation Affect Solar Panel Lifespan
Solar panels undergo a natural degradation process, significantly affecting their lifespan and efficiency. It means that the energy the panels can produce decreases gradually over time.
Several factors contribute to the degradation of solar panels:
- Environmental Conditions: High temperatures, frost, humidity, and strong winds can accelerate the degradation process. These conditions can damage the surface of the panels and affect their ability to absorb sunlight effectively.
- Light-Induced Degradation (LID): This type of degradation happens when solar panels are first exposed to sunlight. The silicon wafer’s presence of oxygen is the cause, initially resulting in decreased power output.
- Potential-Induced Degradation (PID): Occurring under high voltage and temperature conditions, PID can lead to a significant loss in energy generation, sometimes up to 30%.
- Thermal Cycling: This refers to the expansion and contraction of solar panel materials due to temperature changes, which can also lead to deterioration.
Solar panels are still a durable and long-lasting energy solution despite these degradation factors.
Fortunately, on average, most solar panels only have a yearly degradation rate of about 0.2-0.5%.
So, even after 25 years, a solar panel’s efficiency is typically expected to be almost 90% of its original capacity.
How to Maximise Solar Panel Lifespan
To maximise the lifespan of your solar panels and mitigate degradation, consider these key steps:
Choose High-Quality Panels
Opt for durable solar panels with a low degradation rate, as this can significantly influence their efficiency and longevity, helping them last 25-30 years.
Look for Warranties
Speaking of quality, you should also look for extended warranties from manufacturers and installers, which can cover potential damages, including those from extreme weather.
Expert Installation
An expert installer can correctly set up and wire your panels, preventing accelerated degradation. Reputable installers can offer ongoing monitoring to ensure your system operates optimally and help identify any issues early on.
Upgrade as Needed
If your solar panels stop being cost-effective for energy savings, consider upgrading them. However, this usually becomes relevant after 25-30 years, when their efficiency declines.
By focusing on these aspects, you can maximise the effective lifespan of your solar panels without incurring unnecessary costs
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the typical lifespan of solar panels and the factors that influence their longevity is crucial in our journey towards sustainable energy.
With an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years, solar panels are a long-term investment in green energy.
The degradation process, while inevitable, can be managed effectively through careful selection of high-quality panels, proper installation, and regular maintenance.
You can optimise their usage and efficiency by choosing the right type of panels, such as Tier One and ensuring they are installed and maintained by experts.
For more information on solar panels and quality insulation, visit Eco Footprint Limited’s website: https://www.ecofootprintlimited.com/doncaster/
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