How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

According to NREL, a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, it is estimated solar panels last roughly 20-30 years. This study found that solar panels typically degrade in energy output by about .8% each year, and technology has only improved since then.

Consumers and manufacturers alike are optimistic about solar panel durability because many products are outperforming their warranties, such as the world’s first modern solar panel, still functioning after 60 years.

Despite this optimism, consumers still need to choose carefully when selecting a solar panel brand. Most solar panel manufacturers offer a warranty of 20 or 25 years, but not every company provides equally reliable products. Durability is a major concern for consumers because solar panels are exposed to the elements on a constant basis. As the roof heats up during the day, the metal of the solar panel expands. As it cools back down, the metal contracts. This daily fluctuation weakens the cells over time, particularly in Arizona’s blistering days and cold desert nights.

Solar panel lifespan ultimately depends on the type. To continue to perform well after multiple decades, the materials need to be designed to accommodate drastic temperature changes.

What Does It Take to Last? A Closer Look at SunPower® Designs.

What Arizona Solar Concepts understands above all else is that a solar panel is only as good as its cells. The major reason our patented technology surpasses the competition is because of the high-strength, solid copper foundation on the back of the cell, where it’s protected from damaging levels of heat. These are called interdigitated back-contact cells (IBC), uniquely designed to enhance the panel’s power as well as its durability. Even with the most dramatic shifts in temperature, the cells continue to perform at exceptional rates for years after their installation.

Conventional cells use thin silicon, which is more susceptible to corrosion and breakage. The metal crosses over the active solar surface in lines, fully exposed to the sun and unnecessarily shading the rest of the cell. These brands typically need to offer shorter warranties because their products will not hold up the way they need to after decades of use.

SunPower® panels, on the other hand, produce 60% more energy than their conventional counterparts over the first 25 years, and the power decline in that time is only 8%—compared to nearly 20% in conventional solar panels. Simply put, our panels are designed to last.

Get Started on Your Solar Installation Plan Today

Arizona Solar Concepts provides high-quality solar panel installation for homeowners and commercial property owners throughout the Phoenix Metro Area. For every project, our goal is to deliver unbeatable levels of efficiency and customer service. Let us help you make the transition to solar power today so we can ensure you benefit for years to come.