Solar Panel: Amidst rising electricity bills and increasing awareness about the environment, people are now increasingly turning to solar energy. From rooftops of homes to big industries, solar panels are being installed everywhere. But before installing a solar system, the biggest question in people’s mind is that how many years do solar panels last and do they also have any expiry date?

Actually, solar panel is not something that suddenly stops after a fixed date. Its lifespan gradually decreases and with time its ability to generate electricity starts decreasing. This is why its life is measured on the basis of performance.

What is the average life of a solar panel?

Generally a good solar panel can easily work for 25 to 30 years. Many companies also provide a performance warranty of up to 25 years on their panels. This does not mean that the panel will be completely damaged after 25 years, rather it means that after such a period of time, its ability to generate electricity may be less than before.

For example, if a new panel is generating electricity at 100% capacity in the beginning, then after 25 years the same panel can work at about 75 to 85% capacity, that is, it does not stop generating electricity, but its efficiency gradually decreases.

How is the expiry date decided?

The expiry of solar panel is not like that of any food item. Its age depends on many technical things. Companies decide the estimated life of the panel based on its quality, material used, weather and performance tests.

Every year the capacity of solar panels decreases a little which is

Is called degradation rate. For most good panels this rate is around 0.5% per year. That means every year the power generation capacity of the panel keeps decreasing little by little.

If there is excessive heat, dust, rain or storm in any area, it can also affect the lifespan of the panel. However, with proper installation and regular cleaning, its life can be extended significantly.

Do panels become useless after 30 years?

it’s not like that at all. Many solar panels continue to work even after 30 years. Although their capacity is not the same as before, they can still generate useful amounts of electricity. Many old panels are still being used in small houses, farmhouses and rural areas.

Actually, the real strength of solar panel lies in its long life and low maintenance. Once installed correctly, it helps save electricity for years.

What things should be kept in mind while buying solar panels?

If you are thinking of installing solar panels, do not decide just by looking at the price. Panel from a good company, long warranty, low degradation rate and strong build quality are very important. If you make the right choice, solar panels can reduce your electricity bills for decades.

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