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How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
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Solar panels are becoming the go-to option for those opting for a clean and efficient way to power their homes or businesses. Statistics show that the U.S. installed a photovoltaic (PV) capacity of 4.6 gigawatts (GWdc) in Q2 2022. This brings the total installed to 130.9 GWdc, enough to power 23 million residences. As a result, many homes can now enjoy energy freedom and independence. But how long do solar panels really last?
Typically, a solar panel will last for about 25–30 years. However, it doesn’t mean you’ll dispose of it immediately after it hits 25 years old. The panel will still generate electricity but at reduced efficiency.
In this article, you will learn about this topic and more:
The Lifespan of Solar Panels
Solar Panel Degradation
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Lifespan
Solar Panels That Last Longest
Solar Panels after Their Useful Lifespans
Tips to Make Your Home Solar Panels Last Longer
What is the lifespan of solar panels?
Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic or PV panels, are made to last more than 25 years. Most solar panels are typically warrantied for 25-30 years, but they can last much longer. High-quality solar panels can last 40 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. In fact, many solar panels installed as early as the 1980s are still working at the expected capacity.
Not only are solar panels remarkably reliable, but solar panel longevity has also increased dramatically over the last 20 years. In addition to decades of effective performance, many solar manufacturers back their products with performance guarantees in their warranties.
Keep in mind that expected solar panel life expectancy doesn’t mean the panels on your roof will stop producing electricity after a couple of decades. Instead, it means their energy production will decrease by what solar panel manufacturers consider optimal to meet the average American family’s energy needs.
While you can expect your solar panels to last for over three decades, it’s important to note that your inverter has a shorter useful life. A solar inverter’s lifespan is between 10 and 15 years.
Do solar panels degrade over time?
As with most technologies, solar panels produce less energy over time. This reduced power output is called the degradation rate. The median solar panel degradation rate is about 0.5%, so a solar panel’s energy production will decrease at a rate of 0.5% per year. Therefore, after 20 years, your panels should still work at about 90% of their original output.
The degradation rate keeps improving as solar energy technology evolves. However, the rate can depend on the manufacturer, meaning you can get one with a degradation rate of less than 0.5% per year. You can find this information on the product specification sheet.
Which solar panels will last longest?
There are three categories of solar panels depending on the manufacturer: tier 1, tier 2, and tier 3.
Tier 1: Solar panels from Tier 1 manufacturers are the most long-lasting, as they have a 0.3% degradation rate. In addition, they offer excellent quality with a long product and performance warranty.
Tier 1 includes SunPower, LG, Jinko, Panasonic, and Trina. Solar panels from these manufacturers offer you the confidence that the efficiency levels will still be high even after their life. However, it’s important to note that the cost can be 30% more than others.
Tier 2: Solar panels are slightly less efficient than Tier 1. Nonetheless, they are still more efficient than Tier 3 panels. These panels are usually cheaper than those from Tier 1 manufacturers and have a 0.5% degradation rate. In addition, the panels come from companies that have been in production for two to five years.
Tier 2 manufacturers offer long lifespans, but you cannot compare their solar panel efficiency level with that of tier-one panels. Examples include Axitec Solar and Luxor Solar.
Tier 3: Manufacturers use materials from Tiers 1 and 2 companies to assemble their panels. As a result, their products have the lowest quality and price. Furthermore, these panels have a degradation rate of 0.8% and a lower-performance warranty.
What are the factors that affect solar panel lifespan
How long solar panels last depends on a few factors, including the following:
Environment: Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, can affect the lifespan of a solar panel. Any extreme weather reduces the panel’s longevity. For example, solar panels installed in cooler climates typically last longer than those in hotter climates.
Type and quality of the panel: The solar panel’s lifespan depends on its type and quality. Monocrystalline panels are made from high-quality materials than polycrystalline and thin-film panels. This makes them more durable.
Installation: The way your panels are installed can influence their lifespan. An expert will ensure that the position, racking, wiring, and other connections are perfectly done.
Maintenance: Although solar panels require less care, regular maintenance is crucial. Besides improving their lifespan, it can also boost their efficiency level.
Three tips to make your home solar panels last longer
The great thing about solar panels is that they require very little maintenance. Regular solar panel cleaning is generally unnecessary unless your area is highly susceptible to dust, dirt, pollen, or sand due to an arid climate.
While solar panels require little maintenance, inspecting them from time to time and monitoring their performance are still important. Here are a few tips to ensure your solar installation works at its total capacity.
Tip #1: Keep your panels clear of debris and other damaging materials
Excess buildup of dust, pollen, leaves, bird droppings, and nesting can cause damage to your panels, increasing their degradation rate and inefficiency. While rain suffices for cleaning your solar panels, you can still consider professional cleaning if your panels aren’t working at full capacity.
In addition, ensure your solar panels aren’t under branches, as they reduce output. Branches might also fall on the panels and cause severe damage. Contact your solar provider immediately if these elements interfere with or damage your panels, especially if you don’t have the training or tools to take further action.
Tip #2: Ensure regular monitoring and maintenance
Routine maintenance checks will help keep your solar system’s panel performance, meters, inverter, and other parts running at maximum efficiency. It’s also important to note any changes in your electric bills and energy usage.
Underperforming panels after rainfall or being hosed down with water may point to an electrical problem. In addition, an unusual spike in your utility bill may mean the panels need to be checked by a professional.
Tip #3: Team up with a trustworthy solar provider
The best thing you can do to ensure the longevity of your solar panel system is to find a reputable solar installer. Although solar panel systems require little regular maintenance, some solar providers offer comprehensive maintenance packages for the life of their products. These packages ensure your panels are efficiently generating clean, affordable, and reliable energy for decades.
Sunrun has over 20 years of installation experience and partners with only the most highly trained installers in your neighborhood to provide you with worry-free energy.
If your panels require more than a routine hosing down or require you to get on the roof, we highly urge you to contact your trusted solar provider to receive professional assistance.
What happens to solar panels after their useful lifespan?
After their useful life, solar panels will gradually degrade and become less efficient at converting sunlight into electricity. However, this doesn’t mean you can throw any away since it can still produce enough energy to meet your needs.
When you notice insufficient electricity to power your home, the best option is to add another panel. But with good quality panels, you’ll still enjoy free electricity in a sense for over a decade, even if they’re past their useful life.
So what do you do with solar panels that are not useful anymore? Most worn-out panels end up in landfills. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), solar panels may contain hazardous chemicals such as lead and cadmium. This means you should find a better way to dispose of them. You can contact your state or local recycling agencies so that they can recommend a disposal or recycling method.
What warranties and guarantees do solar panel manufacturers offer?
Most solar panel manufacturers offer equipment and linear performance warranty. The equipment warranty typically covers materials and workmanship defects, ranging from 12 to 25 years. Performance warranties guarantee the panels will produce a certain amount of power over their lifetime. Most manufacturers offer 25 years of performance warranties.
When should you replace your solar panels?
It’s hard to pinpoint the exact time to replace your solar panels since they might still be in good shape and generate solar power even after their useful life is over. However, it’s good to make plans for a new one once you see some inefficiencies. For example, a good indication that your panel needs a replacement is when your electricity bills increase. Then, you can call a solar panel company to have them inspect your panels.
Enjoy lasting solar power with Sunrun
There’s no doubt that residential solar panel systems are a major long-term investment. It’s natural to ask, “How long do solar panels last?” to be sure that the ones you choose will withstand the test of time and help you reap the benefits of solar. That’s why Sunrun is here to help you enjoy reliable, worry-free, renewable energy for years to come.
Our team of experienced solar advisors is ready to discuss your energy needs and help you find the ideal solar solution for your home. See why Sunrun is one of America’s leading solar companies, and start with a free solar quote today.
Sources
Recycling & End-of-Life Considerations for Photovoltaics
Researchers at NREL Find Fewer Failures of PV Panels and Different Degradation Modes in Systems Installed after 2000
STAT FAQs Part 2: Lifetime of PV Panels
How to Maintain Your Solar System Year Round
How Much Does It Cost To Clean And Maintain Solar Panels?
Solar panel maintenance: Everything you need to know
Cleaning Your Solar Panels Is It Necessary? How Often?
U.S. Solar Market Insight
End-of-Life Solar Panels: Regulations and Management
The Pros and Cons of Solar Energy
Section 8: What warranties are available?