Solar Panel Degradation Over Time

Does that really matter.

Solar panel degradation over time. It does because yearly degradation compounds over time. On average solar panels degrade at a rate of 1 each year. A panel s degradation rate materials temperature coefficient warranty and caliber of installation all influence how long it ll hold up over time. Panels in more moderate climates such as the northern united states had degradation rates as low as 0 2 per year.

Solar panel degradation and failure is not a clear cut situation kurtz said. However a study conducted by the national renewable energy laboratory nrel shows a more accurate picture of solar panel degradation. Financially degradation of a pv module or system is equally important because a higher degradation rate. In the years since this 2012 study was conducted more efficient technologies have been developed and many newer panels have just a 0 5 percent yearly decline in energy.

Understanding these elements is key when selecting solar panels for your home or business. Solar panel degradation rates are constantly improving as solar panel technology gets better over the years and degradation rates below 1 are common throughout the industry. For example solarcity the largest residential solar installer in the u s guarantees that its panel efficiency won t degrade below an 80 efficiency rating over a 20 year power purchase. Below is a comparison of the output of solar power systems over a 50 year period with degradation rates of 0 25 sunpower s expected average 0 4 an excellent rate of degradation 0 8 the mean average found in some studies and 1 the old standard.

For most tier 1 solar panels the degradation rate is 30 meaning that each year the panels performance is reduced by 30. Over 25 years that adds up to a total of 6 96 meaning your panels will operate at 93 04 of their original capacity in 2045. That s backed up by the solar panel manufacturer s warranty which guarantees 90 production in the first ten years and 80 by year 25 or 30.