What is the average lifetime of the panels?

Photovoltaics is often presented as a technology that allows you to forget about energy bills from the grid forever. For this reason, we associate modules and entire PV installations with longevity, reliability and trouble-free operation. Is it really so? What is the real service life of photovoltaic panels? We answer the most important questions!

Life cycle of PV panels – how much is it actually?

The question of the life cycle of a photovoltaic module is absolutely justified. An investor considering building his own home solar power plant wants to know whether individual elements of the installation will need to be replaced, and if so, after what time. Even though producers of photovoltaic systems provide guarantees for 10, 15 or even 25 years, we have good news – in the vast majority of cases, solar panels can last much longer.

The actual lifetime of the solar panels

It is estimated that modern solar cells, free from manufacturing defects and operating in appropriate weather conditions, will generate electricity for up to 40 years. Of course, you should take into account the natural wear and tear of solar panels over the years, due to which the efficiency of old panels will not be as high as that of newly installed modules. It should be noted, however, that the decrease in the power of the panels with each subsequent year is minimal and practically imperceptible for the efficiency of the entire PV installation.

Panel power loss – what are the performance losses?

Tests conducted on old models of panels, produced in the years 2000-2010, showed a loss of their efficiency at the level of 0.5% per year. This means that the efficiency of the solar panels after 10 years will still be 95% of the factory efficiency. However, it is worth paying attention to the fact that cells produced today are characterized by even lower losses, usually not more than 0.4% per year.

How to extend the lifetime of a photovoltaic installation?

Although photovoltaic systems are considered maintenance-free, thanks to a few simple actions, such as regular monitoring of the installation power, checking connections or checking the condition of the cables, it is possible to optimize their performance and service life. In summer and during long-term drought, you can also clean PV panels using professional tools or services of an external company.