How Long Do Solar Panels Really Last?

However, certain factors will impact their longevity, including the type and quality of manufacture. To help with your investment decision, let’s take a deep dive into the life expectancy of a solar panel installation…

Types of Solar Panels Explained

Solar power works by converting sunlight into electricity. That’s the simple explanation, but behind the scenes there’s a lot of technology!

There are nine types of solar panels currently available: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin film, transparent, Concentrator Photovoltaics (CPV), Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC), perovskite, solar tile and solar thermal.

Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages and will suit certain properties and budgets better than others. Importantly, each has a different lifespan. Let’s take a look.

Monocrystalline

• Lifespan 25 – 40 years
• Most expensive type
• Dark colour, sleek appearance
• Most efficient residential panels, capable of converting more sunlight into energy
• Fewer panels required for the same output as other options

Polycrystalline

• Lifespan 25 – 30 years
• More eco-friendly as less silicon is wasted during manufacturing
• One-third less efficient than monocrystalline
• Cheaper option
• Fewer panels required for the same output as other options

Thin Film

• Lifespan 10 – 20 years
• Good for roofs with smaller available space, can be wrapped around objects
• Much lower efficiency than other types
• Cheapest option

Transparent

• Lifespan 25 – 30 years
• Mainly used on commercial buildings, with extensive window space
• Applied onto glass, generating solar energy while letting daylight in
• Expensive option
• Low efficiency

Concentrator Photovoltaics (CPV)

• Lifespan 25 – 35 years
• Only available to energy companies currently because of high cost
• Extremely high efficiency, generating solar energy with very little light

Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC)

• Lifespan 25 – 35 years
• High efficiency versus traditional panels
• Technology is being overtaken by other models

Perovskite

• Lifespan 25 – 30 years
• Currently in development, will be available in 2026
• More efficient than any other panel on the market
• Will be expensive initially

Solar Tile

• Lifespan 25 – 30 years
• Aesthetically pleasing, blends in with the roof
• 40% less efficient than solar panels
• Avoids regulations on listed buildings and conservation areas
• Low efficiency

Solar Thermal Panels

• Lifespan 20 – 25 years
• Easy to install
• Relatively cheap and efficient
• Provides hot water, not electricity

Trying to figure out which solar panel installation is best for your commercial property can be difficult. Why not contact Vital Power for expert help and advice.

Ensuring the Longevity of a Solar Panel Installation

Latest advice suggests solar panels degrade between 0.2% to 0.5% every year. Their lifespan averages 25 – 30 years; after this, the amount of electricity they generate reduces. Climate and the weather impact heavily on the lifespan of solar panels.

Panels exposed to extreme temperatures, UV, high winds or other harsh weather conditions may deteriorate faster.
Solar panels are generally very durable, and with good care and maintenance can provide efficient, renewable energy for 25 – 30 years.

Solar Panel Maintenance

Although generally low-maintenance, solar panels do require regular upkeep to keep them working at their best and performing optimally. Cleaning is essential as excess dust, dirt and debris can block sunlight and reduce performance. If you’re doing this yourself, use a soft brush or cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.

Professional Servicing

It is recommended to instruct a professional contractor every few years to perform a thorough service of solar panels and their workings. They will inspect the panels for damage and replace any worn parts. In particular, they will look out for sub-optimal inverter issues. An inverter is crucial to a solar panel installation as it converts DC electricity to AC electricity. An inverter typically lasts 10 – 15 years, but can last up to 20 years with good maintenance.

Tree Trimming

Keep nearby vegetation in check to prevent sunlight obstruction and debris from falling on solar panels and equipment.

Critter Guards

Look out for animals nesting underneath and around solar panels and take action quickly to remove unwanted guests.

Choose a High-Quality System

Investing in high-quality solar panels will ensure performance and durability. Often, the materials and design offer a better resistance to environmental factors and require fewer repairs and maintenance over time.

Final Thoughts

Investing in solar power is a popular and sensible choice these days, reducing reliance on the grid by generating renewable energy while utilising a dormant asset like a warehouse roof. As part of the investment decision, consider the different types of solar installation, and choose a reputable company offering a comprehensive warranty and maintenance service.

Vital Power incorporates solar energy with battery energy storage, electric vehicle charging and intelligent management systems to provide an optimal power solution for your business.