Are you planning to invest in a sustainable source of energy in 2024? Well, that’s a brilliant idea! And, what could be better than getting solar panels for yourselves? These are energy-efficient, sustainable, and cause no harm to the environment. Solar panels are devices that produce power with the help of celestial energy. These are becoming increasingly popular day by day.
Many commercials and residential setups are installed to harness solar energy to generate heat and electricity. Some examples of their uses include heating geyser water, generating inverter electricity, running water motors, etc. The benefits include reduced electricity bills, little to no stress, financial stability, extended lifespan, etc.
How long do solar panels last? Typically, a solar panel's lifespan is around 20 to 25 years. However, you must consider some factors when getting a solar panel for yourself or your company. Of course, we’re talking about the lifespan only! Though these gadgets don’t stop working efficiently and for many years, their power and effectiveness will decline.
Ultimately, they would be less efficient in harnessing solar power for use. Thus, in today’s blog, we will cover everything about solar panel lifespan to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Solar Panel Lifespan
Manufacturers create solar panels for builders to last for several decades. However, their lifespan depends upon several factors, such as
Local Climate
Very high or low temperatures affect the solar panel lifespan negatively. A solar panel will stop working if the weather conditions are very rough, for example, if there are high winds, hails, or storms. Extreme humidity and long-term exposure to heat will also decrease their lifespan.
Solar Panel Installation
Canopy solar panels must be installed with reliable afflicting systems. Proper attachment prevents the panels from breaking or cracking, helping them last longer. You should often consult experienced solar panel installers as they know how to fix the devices at your residence or buildings.
Many installers often include a craftsmanship warranty covering installation. This saves homeowners from defective systems that usually don’t last long.
Solar Panel Standard
Always invest in a high-quality solar panel if you want an extended lifespan. How long do solar panels last? Usually, they last longer than 30 years if taken care of properly. Though these will still degrade, the expected period would be much more extended than for cheap-quality panels. They will offer several benefits, such as sufficient energy savings, a surplus power supply, and better Returns on Investment.
High-standard solar panels also have better warranty coverage, ranging from 12 to 15 years, and can even go up to 25 years. These guarantees usually include all the insurance coverages above, safeguarding your panels for a long time.
Types of Solar Panel Warranties
Many solar panels offer free replacement warranties for a particular period. Let’s cover them in depth.
Product Warranty
The product warranty offers free solar panel replacement if there is an artistry defect. The insurance period depends on several factors, but solar energy quality is usually over ten years. As a small suggestion, always go for panels offering insurance against failed devices with a 25-year warranty.
Power Warranty
Also known as performance warranties, power coverages are offered with renewable energy instruments such as wind turbines and solar panels. Photovoltaic (PV) cells gradually lose efficiency over time. Ultimately, the amount of power generated will be reduced every year. Yet, the coverage ensures it happens very slowly.
- Solar panel producers specify a maximum degradation rate, and the power warranty covers you if they degrade faster.
- For example, suppose your dealer specifies a performance loss of 0.50% per year, and your solar panels start to lose 1% of their yearly productivity. In that case, the performance guarantee is effective, and you get a free replacement.
Power warranties are usually higher than product warranties; most makers offer 25 to 30 years. A high-quality device loses around 2% to 3% productiveness during the first year and less than 0.50% annually. This means the best solar panels can generate at least 85% of their first electricity output after 25 years.
As a recommendation, you should go for a solar panel performance warranty in the following situations:
- No more than 2% to 3% deterioration during the first year
- No more than 0.50% devaluation during the successive years
Installation Warranty
Best panel companies offer homeowners a solar panel lifespan installation warranty upon purchase. Other insurance only covers you for any manufacturer or workmanship-related defect. However, the installation warranty provides additional coverage, such as insuring your photovoltaic system. This includes problems related to parts such as racking and roping.
Installation warranties last up to 25 to 30 years.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Longevity
How long do solar panels last even when covered with the above warranties? The solar panel lifespan depends upon several factors, such as
Mounting Position
Note that solar panels’ power and performance directly depend on sunlight. They will work best if exposed to as much sunlight as possible. Thus, placing them in the direction of the sunlight is an ideal option. Consider rooftop solar panels as they absorb variable amounts of sunlight as the sun keeps moving throughout the day. You can also buy a south-facing panel to get an all-day solar subjection.
The Gleam from the Sun
Many people believe that the sun’s irradiation causes solar panels' photovoltaic (PV) cells to generate power. After all, sunlight is directly required to help solar panels function properly and harness reusable forms of energy. The heat or electricity solar panels produce is directly proportional to the ultraviolet rays on the devices.
Standard
The quality, materials, and the types of solar devices you install, as with most things, will impact how well they function and last. While cheap-quality solar panels are less expensive, they deteriorate faster.
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Many reasons cause solar panel lifespan to decrease faster than expected. These include subjection to extreme weather changes, heavy soiling, improper installation, or when the panel is crystalline. The technology used by producers also impacts their lives.
Temperature
Excessive humidity or high temperatures cause the solar panels to degrade faster. Hence, consider the average temperature in your region before installing one.
Maintenance
No device would last longer if not taken care of. The same is valid with solar panels. Ensure that dirt, debris, or dust is removed from them to help them last longer.
Expected Lifespan of Solar Panels
How long do solar panels last, according to research and industry standards? This question haunts every solar panel owner, especially if they want to switch to celestial energy. Solar panels are exceptionally resistant. As discussed before, the average solar panel lifespan can be around 25 to 30 years.
Solar deterioration rate varies anywhere from around 0.3% to 1%. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), an average device usually loses about 0.8% of its productivity yearly. A good solar installation company like Apex Mart will offer panels with a dying rate as low as 0.3 %.
The type of solar panels can also impact tenure. There are different types of solar panels, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
For example, monocrystalline silicon panels last longer and have excellent efficiency, but they might also be more expensive than other solar panels. On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are less productive but might be cheaper.
Another kind that may be more versatile and lightweight than traditional solar panels is thin-film technology. However, they may have a shorter lifespan than other solar PV elements and may not be as efficient at converting sunlight into electric energy.
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
The family sought a sustainable renewable energy source for their daily needs. They bought home a quality solar panel kit with an advanced surprising system. This helped them reduce their electricity bills and ultimately positively impacted their energy consumption.
- Case Study 2: The Garcia House
The Garcia residence valued sustainability and ecosystem health greatly. They always had this question: “How long do solar panels last?”. Thus, they sought solar panels for their home to test the solar panel lifespan. Moreover, they received tax benefits and financial savings through metering.
Tips for Maximizing Solar Panel Lifespan
To make sure your solar panel lifespan doesn’t decrease faster than expected, make sure you follow these tips:
Remove Debris and Dust Particles
The collection of bird droppings, mud, or leaves can worsen the effectiveness of your solar panel. Consider hiring a panel cleaning professional if you cannot do it yourself.
Always Monitor the Panels
Regular maintenance and checkups will ensure your device works to the fullest. Schedule meter, inverter, and other components checkups now and then. Connect with a Quality Solar Panel Provider
Finding a reputable solar provider is the best thing you can do to ensure the lifespan of your solar system. Although solar systems require little routine maintenance, some solar installers offer complete maintenance packages for the life of their items to ensure they continue to generate clean, affordable, and dependable energy for decades.
Conclusion
This article concluded that solar panel lifespan depends on several factors, such as quality, climate, soiling, etc. Furthermore, several tips and tricks can help prevent your panels degrade faster than expected.
We hope you’ve got an answer to your question, “How long do solar panels last?”! If you want to discuss this further or get a quality solar item, connect with Apexmart. You can also mail us at info@apexmart.co.bw. Happy shopping!