Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Umer Malik
Scientists warn that the goals set forth by The Paris Agreement are not being met. Immediate action to curb climate change needs to happen or else we’ll pass the tipping point of no return.
Some of that responsibility falls on citizens to take eco-friendly measures. A big way to address that responsibility is by changing the way that we power our homes.
Buying solar panels is an excellent way to turn things in favor of the environment. There are a lot of considerations to make when it comes to your home power, though. How long do solar panels last, for example, and will they affect your energy costs?
We’re going to answer these questions today, giving you some insight into the lifespan of solar panels. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
There are numerous factors that play into how long your solar panels will last. For one, the quality of your panels and the position of installation put different levels of strain on your system.
In terms of panels lasting, well-maintained systems shouldn’t “die” until a piece gets broken. That said, the level of efficiency reduces as time goes on. You can expect your panels to produce about one percent less energy every year that it’s in use.
New technology might suffer less reduction, but the average rate is around one percent at this time. The question, then, becomes how much energy you reliably need and whether or not the panels still provide that much energy.
The general “lifespan” that panels have before they’re not considered useful is around 30 years. Once the system reaches less than 85 percent of its capacity it becomes more reasonable to get a new system.
Small reductions in efficiency won’t get in the way of your everyday life. This is especially true if your home is energy efficient and your panels provide an excess of energy.
Installation And Use Costs
The key expense in the solar panel equation is the installation and maintenance. The cost of solar panels becomes zero after that point.
Over time, the savings you get each month will offset the cost of installation. Installation costs could range from just under $1,000 to more than $10,000 depending on the size of your home and your energy needs.
It’s also worth noting that you can supplement your solar energy with energy from the grid. In that sense, the slight reduction in efficiency that your panels suffer will get offset by your grid.
The extra expense might be a few dollars every year. Once the electricity bill from the power grid becomes more than you’re comfortable with, it’s time to replace your panels.
Interested In Residental Solar Panels?
So, how long do solar panels last? The best estimates are around 30 years, but new technology might become more resilient. Even then, the panels will function except at a lower rate.
There’s more to learn if you want to get home solar panels, though. We’re here to help. Explore our site for more ideas on energy efficiency, new technology, business insights, and a whole lot more.
Read More: 6 Terrific Benefits of Solar Panels for Your Home
