As more homeowners turn to solar power to save money and reduce their use of nonrenewable energy, many have questions about the longevity of solar panel systems. One of the most common concerns among South Central Texas homeowners who contact GVEC Solar Services is how long solar panels last. In answering this question, the primary consideration revolves around the natural degradation of solar panel cells.

GVEC Solar Services: Industry-Leading Panels and Warranties

Before delving more deeply into the lifespan of a solar cell, it’s important for potential solar buyers to understand that GVEC Solar Services offers only the highest quality systems. Our photovoltaic (PV) panels are locally sourced and go through multiple checks on quality during the manufacturing process. They are designed for maximum weather resistance and durability and undergo stringent quality and reliability testing. We stand behind each system with a 25-year warranty on parts and 10 years on installation. When you purchase a solar panel system from GVEC Solar Services, you’re getting not only the best products available, but also warranties that help ensure reliability and durability for the long-haul.

Why Do Solar Panel Cells Degrade?

The two biggest drivers behind the degradation of solar panel cells are exposure to weather and ultraviolet light. For example, solar panels in dry climates are not exposed to the same weather dynamics and events (i.e, rain, etc.) but are subjected to higher levels of ultraviolet light. This is because these environments often have higher average temperatures and are sunny nearly year-round.

It might be expected for panels under such conditions to exhibit greater ultraviolet-light-related degradation compared to panels installed in an area with a wetter climate. Fortunately, solar manufacturers design panels to withstand a range of weather and ultraviolet light conditions. Modern systems can endure an unexpected range of extreme conditions, and many come with warranties of 20 years or more to guarantee their capacity to continue functioning efficiently and dependably despite any solar cell degradation.

How Much Do Solar Panel Cells Degrade?

How much a specific type of solar panel degrades depends on a number of factors, and the general rule is to expect panels to lose about 1% of power generation capacity each year, assuming all other factors remain constant. Manufacturers typically expect solar panels to produce approximately 80% of the initial energy level after 20 years. Older solar panels were not designed with the benefits of current cell technologies and may degrade faster.

Tips to Extend the Lifetime of Your Solar Panels

While you cannot control the weather or the amount of ultraviolet light exposure to your solar panels, there are ways you can maximize the return on investment. Here are some tips:

  • Protect the panels from potential damage by, for example, trimming tree branches that may hang in close proximity.
  • Occasionally check panels for damage, repairing any as soon as you spot it.
  • Clean your panels as needed to remove any accumulated debris.

It’s important to note that modern solar panels are designed to be tough, durable and virtually maintenance free. As such, it shouldn’t be necessary to inspect your panels more than once or twice yearly or after a significant weather event.

Solar Panels for South Central Texas Homeowners

GVEC Solar Services offers solar panel systems for homes of every size and design in South Central Texas. If you’re interested in learning more about solar panel systems in the Guadalupe Valley and surrounding areas, call GVEC Solar Services at 855.898.8807.

Our solar solutions specialists don’t work on commission. They’ll help you understand all the ins and outs of solar with truthful information you can count on, regardless of whether you decide to make a purchase. They’ll walk you through GVEC Solar Services‘s complete, turnkey solar solution and help you understand the warranties included with our systems. They’ll answer all your questions, too, and advise you regarding what to realistically expect regarding panel performance and lifespan. We also offer battery storage solutions!

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