Solar Panels Degradation

Let's go briefly on a not-so subtle, but truly pragmatic, topic on the energy business: solar panel degradation. Over time, solar panels experience degradation due to typical wear and tear caused by exposure to UV rays and adverse weather conditions. They just don't maintain peak performance indefinitely.

??Manufacturers usually specify the rate of degradation in a panel’s performance warranty. There are different forms of mechanical and chemical degradation caused by the panel’s exposure to light, these include:

?? Light-induced degradation?(LID). Interaction between the crystalline silicon cells on the panel with the outside environment. LID can last days or over a week.

??Direct light-induced degradation?(DLID). Direct exposure to sunlight during the initial setup period can cause the electronics within the photovoltaic cells to warp or buckle from the heat. DLID can last a few hours.

?? UV light-induced degradation?(UVID). Initial exposure to sunlight causes the crystalline silicon oxide on the surface of the panel to form a layer of boron dioxide that reduces its efficiency.

In the first 1,000 hours, there’s an adjustment period when the photoconductivity is diminished, reducing the panel’s efficiency by 1-3%, after which it stabilizes.

Over their average lifespan of around 30 years, they gradually produce less power due to a process called degradation. Here are the key points:

Degradation Process: Solar panels age and operate at reduced efficiency over time.

A lower degradation rate indicates better panel performance.

The median degradation rate is approximately 0.5% per year, resulting in an annual energy output drop of about 0.4% to 0.5%.

After 20 years, panels should still produce around 90% of their original output.

Causes of Degradation:

External factors (e.g., weather) wear down panels.

Micro cracks in silicon cells weaken electrical connections.

Moist heat, ?? humidity, and UV exposure contribute to degradation.

Long-term exposure to high humidity (damp heat) affects insulation.

UV radiation can discolor and degrade the back sheet.

After 25 Years: Industry norms suggest a useful life of 25-30 years.

Panels won’t suddenly expire but will experience reduced performance.

Even below 80% output, panels continue to generate electricity, albeit less efficiently.

Remember, solar panels remain valuable beyond their useful life, contributing to energy savings. ??

??A handful of essential information for proper maintenance and ?extend the lifespan of your solar panels, though, include the adherence to the following strategies:

Regular Cleaning: Keep your panels clean by washing them with water to remove dirt and debris.?Regular cleaning helps maintain efficiency.

Monitor Performance: Work with a reputable installer who provides routine maintenance checks.?Monitoring panel performance ensures any issues are addressed promptly.

Weather Protection: Shelter panels during extreme weather conditions (e.g., heavy snow or hail).?Remove snow promptly to prevent microcracks from freezing temperatures.

Backup Battery: Consider using a backup battery system.?It can help regulate power flow and reduce stress on the panels.

Choose Quality: Opt for high-quality panels and professional installation.?A reliable installer ensures proper setup and maintenance.