How long do solar panels last?

Surprisingly, solar panel lifespan has always been extremely good. Given they have no moving parts, there is rarely something that can go wrong within the solar panel itself, which means they can keep generating electricity for a very long time. However, what has improved is the level a solar panel will be performing at after 25 years of usage.

How long should a solar panel warranty last?

Near the end of your solar panel warranty (typically ~25 years), you should assess your panels’ performance and evaluate the trade-offs of purchasing a new system. By this time, you will likely have already paid off your solar energy system and generated an abundance of power independently from the utility company.

How often do solar panels degrade?

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), solar panels will degrade by between .25% and .75% each year for an average of .5%/year. This means that after the 25-year warranty on your solar panels, you can still expect them to perform on the order of between 82.5% and 93% of the original output.

What is a solar performance warranty?

The performance warranty guarantees that the solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their rated power output over time, usually promising around 80-90% of their original output by the end of the warranty period. These warranties protect your solar investment by making sure the panels work as they should for a long time.

Do solar panels come with a warranty?

Solar panels usually come with two types of warranties: The product warranty covers defects in the solar panel itself and typically covers around 20-25 years, although some manufacturers offer longer warranties up to 30 years or beyond.

Are solar panels reliable?

Reliability: High-quality panels and batteries ensure consistent energy production, even during cloudy days or at night. Most solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, which guarantees their performance and durability. These warranties are a testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s longevity.