Solar panels are a long-lasting and reliable source of renewable energy and their lifespan is usually around 25 to 30 years. There are two types of solar panels – solar thermal panels and solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. Read on to find out how long each type can usually last.

Solar PV Panels

Solar PV panels take sunlight and convert it directly into electricity. They are the most common type that is used in homes and businesses. These panels are quite durable and they can last a very long time. Most manufacturers offer warranties of 25 to 30 years for their solar PV panels

However, this doesn’t mean the panels will stop working after this period. Many solar PV systems will continue to produce electricity for 30 to 40 years but with a gradual decrease in efficiency over time.

The efficiency of solar PV panels tends to decline slowly, with most high-quality panels losing about 0.5% to 0.8% of their power output each year. This means that after 25 years, a solar PV panel will be operating at about 80% to 87.5% of its original capacity. If you need help with solar panel installation, experts such as https://gsmlimited.com/services/solar-panels/ can offer advice.

Solar Thermal Systems

Solar thermal panels are used for heating water or air and they generally have a shorter lifespan than the PV panels. These systems can usually last between 20 to 30 years but the main components that might need replacement sooner are the pumps and tanks which have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, with proper maintenance, some solar thermal systems can last even longer.

The overall lifespan of a solar panel system isn’t just about the panels. Other components like the inverters (which convert the DC electricity from the panels into AC electricity for use in homes) often need replacing after 10 to 15 years.

The roof mounting systems and wiring and panels that are on roofs in areas with high temperatures or high pollution levels might also degrade faster. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend their lifespan.