Do Tesla And Other Solar Panels Degrade Over Time?
Solar energy adoption is increasing, but some potential buyers might be worried about how long the panels last and if the investment is worth it.
Solar panel degrading concerns could be one of the reasons holding more people back from making the jump to solar energy. In the US and elsewhere, solar deployment is rising rapidly and this is mostly thanks to newer technologies, cheaper and better systems, and tax incentives. Beyond the green pitch, as solar panels are all about long-term investment, it makes sense that any rate of degradation could be a factor in whether the investment is actually worth it.
There are multiple ways to ‘go solar’ and save significantly on energy bills. While there are those that choose to go the DIY route with solar panel kits, others opt to buy from manufacturers and hire installation services. In the US, the majority of solar panels are provided by companies that offer the whole package, from gear to installment, warranty, and support.
The short answer to whether solar panels degrade is, yes. Like pretty much everything, solar panels do degrade. According to Tesla, the efficiency of solar panels made today degrades by roughly 0.5 % each year. In other words, if a solar panel was purchased today, it would still be running above 87.5% capacity in 25 years time. To balance out the degradation, Tesla, and other companies also offer warranties, usually ranging from 25 to 30 years. According to Forbes, the top solar companies in the US include SunPower, Blue Raven Solar, Zenernet, Momentum Solar, Trinity Solar, and Elevation Solar, among others.
The Weather And The Sun
The reason why solar panels degrade is that they are usually mounted on rooftops and are therefore exposed to the elements. In this sense, the very same thing that makes solar panels run can eventually destroy them as well. Studies have shown that the most common problem with solar panels is the discoloration of surfaces. This happens due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV radiation. After which, the solar panels become opaque and the performance of the solar cells can be affected. In addition, extreme changes in temperature, humid weather, hail storms, and extreme heat can also affect the performance of a solar panel over time. Damages to the structure, due to impact, are also common. Freezing, melting and rapid changes in temperature can also cause materials to expand and contract, eventually weakening the structure or electrical components.
Tesla says that, while its systems don’t require regular maintenance, users can clean solar panels to improve energy generation by as much as 5%. Solar panels should be cleaned with non-abrasive materials and water, and simply hosing the panels with the garden hose might be enough. In contrast, accumulated snow should not be shoveled as this can harm the equipment, and users should never try to repair a panel on their own. If something doesn’t seem quite right, a phone call to the company is going to be the best option. In general, while there is some degradation, this isn’t something that should concern anyone who is currently considering making the switch to solar energy.