Solar Panel Degradation: How It Affects Long-Term Performance
Solar panel degradation is a gradual decline in efficiency due to exposure to sunlight and weather. Most solar panels degrade at a rate of about 0.5% per year, meaning
In the past, solar panels would typically see a decrease of 1% or more in power output each year. This is known as the solar panel degradation rate. According to a 2012 study by The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), modern solar panels show no more than 0.8% loss of power per year.
This means that a solar panel's power output will decrease by 0.5-0.8% each year compared to its initial rated output. However, the actual degradation rate can range from as low as 0.2% to as high as 1% annually, depending on the quality and materials used in the panel. To illustrate the impact of degradation, consider a 250-watt solar panel.
Solar panel degradation is a gradual decline in efficiency due to exposure to sunlight and weather. Most solar panels degrade at a rate of about 0.5% per year, meaning they still work well for many years. Quality of materials and installation practices greatly affect how quickly solar panels degrade.
It will be a percentage of the original power output of the panel when it was first bought. For example, a 350-watt solar panel with an 80% power output guarantee for the duration of 25 years should be producing 280 watts after 25 years. Note: Manufacturers test solar panels in a laboratory before they're brought into the market.
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