Solar energy has become a popular way to cut energy costs and reduce environmental impact. But as more people make the switch, a common question asked is what happens to solar panels after 25 years? It’s a fair question, especially if you’re thinking long-term about your investment in renewable energy. Let’s dive into what you can expect from solar panels as they age and what options you’ll have down the road.
The Lifecycle of Solar Panels
Solar panels are not fragile and are built to last. Most come with a performance warranty of about 25 years, hence the question of what happens to solar panels after 25 years? This warranty is usually a good indicator for understanding their lifespan. This doesn’t mean they’ll suddenly stop working once the warranty is up. Instead, it means their efficiency will slowly decline over time. By the end of that 25 year period, most panels will still produce about 80% of the energy they did when they were new. That slow drop in efficiency is called degradation, and it’s just part of how solar technology works.
So, how does this work in practice? Similar to phone batteries, a fresh newly installed system might start at 100% efficiency and lose about 0.5% to 1% of that capacity each year. By year 25, your panels could still operate at 75-85% of their original capacity. Even though that performance drop might seem like a lot, that’s still enough to make a significant impact on peoples’ energy bills.
Why Do Solar Panels Degrade?
The reason why solar panels slowly degrade over time is because they are constantly exposed to the elements. Sunlight, rain, wind, and temperature changes take their toll over time. UV rays can slowly break down the materials, while changes in temperature cause the panels to expand and contract. Usually there are no big damages and it’s mainly minor cracks or other physical wear that reduces their performance.
The materials and manufacturing quality of your panels also play a big role. Higher quality panels usually mean they degrade slower over time, which is why it’s worth investing in a reliable brand. That said, it’s completely natural and expected for all panels to experience some level of wear over time. That’s why it’s important to regularly check your panels, catching signs of big damages and replacing your solar panels before it gets worse.
What Are Your Options After 25 Years?
When your solar panels hit the 25 year mark, it’s not a hard stop. You have a few options for what to do next, depending on the condition of your system and your energy needs.
1. Keep Using Them
Just because the warranty is up doesn’t mean your panels are done for. If they’re still producing enough electricity to meet your needs, there’s no reason to replace them right away. Many people use their original systems for 30 years or more, and while they’ll lose some efficiency over time, they can still make your energy bills lower.
2. Upgrade to Newer Panels
If your current setup isn’t meeting your energy needs or you want to take advantage of advancements in solar technology, upgrading might be the way to go. Solar panels today are more efficient and durable than ever, meaning you could generate more energy from a smaller or same sized setup.
3. Recycle or Repurpose Them
Solar panels don’t only produce green energy, but we can actually reuse and recycle the materials they’re made out of, reducing carbon footprint when making more. They’re made out of glass, aluminum and silicon which can all be recovered. You have to visit a specialized recycling facility, which are becoming more common, making it easier to get rid of old panels in an environmentally friendly way.
If you don’t want to get rid of your old panels, repurposing is another option. Those that still generate some electricity can be used for smaller projects, like powering outdoor lights, a shed, or other low-energy devices. This gives them a second life and keeps them out of the landfill for a while longer.
How to Extend the Life of Your Panels
While you can’t stop solar panels from aging, proper maintenance can help them last as long as possible. Keeping the panels clean and free from debris is a good start. Dirt, dust, and bird droppings can block sunlight which reduces efficiency, so regular cleaning can make a difference. If it snows a lot where you live, then it’s a good idea to regularly brush it off so it doesn’t affect the performance.
It’s also a good idea to have your setup regularly checked by a professional. They can check for any damage, loose connections, or other issues that might affect performance.
What About the Rest of it?
Even though the panels themselves were built to last a long time, the same can’t be said for the rest of your system. The inverter, which converts the DC electricity generated by your panels into AC power for your home, typically has a lifespan of 10-15 years. If your setup has batteries included, they also don’t last as long as your panels themselves. These parts may need to be replaced once or more over time, so it’s important to keep that in mind when doing any long term planning.
Planning for the Future
If you’re already using solar or considering making the switch, you have to make sure you plan in the long term. Understanding what happens to solar panels after 25 years can help you plan for maintenance, upgrades, or replacements down the line. It’s also worth keeping an eye on advancements in solar technology and recycling programs. As this industry continues to grow, new options for extending the life of your long term investment or responsibility disposing them will continue to pop up.
Wrapping It Up
Solar panels are a long-term investment, and they’re built to go the distance. After 25 years, they’ll still produce electricity, just not at their peak capacity. From continuing to use them, upgrading to newer technology, or recycling them, there are plenty of options of what you can do. Each option comes down to your energy goals, the condition of your system, and how much you want to invest in the future.
At Solar Pro, we’re here to support you at every stage of your solar journey. Have questions about what happens to solar panels after 25 years? Reach out to us, we’re always happy to help. Together, we can make the most of solar energy and create a more sustainable future.