Solar Panel Degradation: 7 Proven Ways to Slow It Down

sn’t it annoying how your once-awesome gadgets seem to lose their edge with time? Your once-speedy smartphone now lags, and that “mighty” blender can’t handle a banana anymore. Solar panels, though far less dramatic, face a similar challenge—they gradually lose efficiency as they age.

But here’s the bright side: you can take action to slow this process. Stay with SunValue and learn the secrets to keeping your panels performing like new (well, almost).

Understanding Solar Panel Degradation

Over time, solar panels become less efficient at producing electricity—a process known as degradation. On average, they lose 0.5% to 1% of their efficiency annually, meaning that after 25 years, your panels could still deliver around 80-90% of their original output. While things like weather, UV exposure, and wear and tear can’t be avoided, there are smart steps you can take to reduce the impact. Let’s break them down!

1. Use Quality Components

It’s easy to fall for the idea of saving some money on solar installation—after all, it’s a hefty upfront expense. But beware: cutting corners on components can end up costing you more in the long run. Budget panels, inverters, and mounting systems tend to wear out faster, leading to quicker degradation and higher maintenance bills.

On the flip side, investing in premium materials pays off. They’re made to weather heatwaves, snowstorms, and hail with ease, keeping degradation at bay and your energy output steady for the long haul.

Implementation Tips:

• Choose Tier-1 Panels: Solar producers are ranked into three tiers, and Tier-1 brands are the crème de la crème. Names like Maxeon, LONGi, and Canadian Solar are known for their durability and high efficiency.
• Think Weatherproof Mounts: Your mounting system does more than just hold up your modules—it keeps them performing their best. Consider aluminum or stainless steel mounts and UV-resistant coatings.
• Check for Certifications: Before you buy, check for certifications that verify a panel’s quality and performance under specific conditions. Look for seals like IEC 61215.
• Pay Attention to Warranties: A good warranty is a sign that the brand stands behind its product. Panels typically come with two types of warranties: a performance warranty (promising at least 80% efficiency after 25 years) and a product warranty (covering manufacturing defects).

2. Ensure Proper Installation

Think of solar panel installation like laying the foundation for a house—if it’s not done right, everything else can crumble. Poor install doesn’t just hurt your energy output; it might also give degradation a head start. By setting up your panels correctly, you can protect them from the physical and environmental pressures that build up over time.

How to Get It Right:

1. Hire Certified Pros: Always go for licensed and certified experts who know their stuff. Look for credentials from respected groups like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) or similar organizations in your area.
2. Give Your Roof a Fitness Test: Before installation, check that your roof can handle the added weight of solar panels.
3. Double-Check Alignment and Angles: Set your solar panels at the right angle for your area to soak up the most sun. For instance:some text
   • In the northern hemisphere, panels generally face south.
   • Got adjustable mounts? Seasonal tilts can take efficiency to the next level.
4. Secure the Mounting System: Ensure the mounting brackets are robust, weather-resistant, and securely fastened to your roof or ground mount.

3. Keep the Panels Clean

Over time, dust, pollen, bird droppings, and even the occasional layer of grime from pollution can accumulate on your panels. This dirt doesn’t just look unsightly; it also negatively affects your panels and your solar savings. In fact, a study found that pollution alone can slash panel efficiency by up to 25%. Add dirt into the mix, and the total loss can climb past 35%.

But there’s more at stake than just today’s energy output. Dirty panels can heat unevenly, a phenomenon called soiling hot spots. This uneven stress speeds up panel degradation, making a clean surface even more critical.

Best Practices for Cleaning Your Panels:

• Safety First: Climbing onto the roof might seem like a heroic DIY move, but it’s not worth the risk. If your panels are hard to reach, consider hiring professional cleaners who specialize in solar maintenance. They’re equipped with the tools (and courage) to do the job safely and effectively.
• Gentle Is Key: Forget the heavy-duty scrubbing tools and harsh chemicals. Opt for a soft sponge or brush, paired with water or a mild soap solution.
• Timing Matters: Clean your panels early in the morning or late in the evening, as your panels will be cool to the touch. Midday cleaning might leave streaks—and worse, could cause thermal shock that damages the panels.

Fun Fact: Some companies offer automated cleaning systems that can be programmed to clean your panels at regular intervals.

4. Inspect Regularly

Exposed to weather day and night, PV panels naturally face wear and tear. Small cracks, corrosion, loose wiring, and discoloration can quietly diminish their efficiency and speed up degradation.

For solar panels, a bit of prevention goes a long way. Routine inspections act like health check-ups, identifying potential problems before they escalate. This is an important step in keeping your system performing at its best and making it last longer.

How to Conduct Effective Inspections:

• Start with a Visual Scan: Grab a pair of binoculars or even a drone if you’ve got one, and take a close look at your panels. Check for any visible damage like cracks, bending, or odd discoloration.
• Inspect the Mounting System: Don’t overlook the frame! Tighten any loose screws or bolts, and make sure the array is still firmly secured in place.
• Check Electrical Components: If you’re comfortable with it, inspect your inverter and wiring. Look for anything amiss, like loose connections or frayed wires. Not confident? Call in a professional—your safety is more important.

Pro Tip: Keep a maintenance record to track inspections, cleanings, and any repairs.

5. Take Steps to Prevent PID

Let’s talk about a stealthy solar troublemaker: Potential-Induced Degradation (PID). This phenomenon happens when a voltage difference between solar panels and their grounding system disrupts the inner workings of the panels. As a result, you get a significant drop in output and faster degradation.

Preventing PID is crucial for keeping your panels effective over the long haul. If ignored, it can cut power output by as much as 30%—a huge hit to both your energy production and your return on investment.

Implementation Tips:

• Opt for PID-Resistant Panels: These days, many solar brands have panels designed to fend off PID. Just look out for labels like "PID-resistant" or certifications that tackle this problem.
• Add Anti-PID Devices: These clever tools neutralize the voltage imbalances that cause PID, stopping problems before they start.

Note that PID is more likely to happen in hot and humid regions. If you’re in one, it’s a good idea to focus on prevention.

6. Protect from Weather Damage

While modern solar panels are designed to handle the weather, they’re not invincible. Weather extremes—both heat and cold—can lead to micro-cracks, discoloration, and other issues that cause them to degrade faster. Protecting your panels from harsh conditions can make a big difference.

Implementation Tips:

• Install Wind Barriers: If you live in a windy area, your panels might face extra wear and tear from strong gusts. To minimize stress, think about adding wind barriers or installing your panels in a more protected spot.
• Apply Protective Coatings: Many companies offer special coatings that act like sunscreen for your panels, guarding them against UV rays, salt spray (great for coastal homes), and moisture.
• Prepare for Snow and Ice: For those in colder climates, snow and ice can add weight and block sunlight. A roof rake designed for solar panels is perfect for clearing snow safely.
• Check for Storm Damage: After storms, debris like leaves, branches, or even hail can pile up around your panels. Give them a quick check after severe weather to remove anything blocking sunlight or potentially causing harm.
• Choose Heat-Proof Materials: Extreme heat can make panels expand and contract, which may lead to tiny cracks. Choose panels designed to handle temperature swings, with high-quality backing sheets to minimize damage.

Pro Tip: If you're in the market for a new solar setup, ask your installer about PID warranties. Some manufacturers include them as an added assurance of quality.

7. Monitor Performance

Keeping an eye on your solar panels is like giving them a regular health check-up—it helps them stay efficient and last longer. With regular monitoring, you can catch and fix problems early, reducing the risk of early degradation.

Solar monitoring systems offer real-time insights into your panels' energy production and, sometimes, your home's energy use too.

Types of Solar Monitoring Systems

Built-in Monitoring: Most solar manufacturers offer built-in monitoring systems, like Enphase’s Enlighten or SolarEdge’s platform. They come with user-friendly apps or web-based access.

Third-Party Monitoring: If your setup doesn’t have monitoring,  you can use tools like the Sense Energy Monitor.

Key Features to Look For

• Real-Time Tracking: To quickly identify and address any performance problems.
• Historical Analysis: To review production trends.
• Alerts and Notifications: To get informed about any anomalies fast.
• User-Friendly Interface: To monitor important data with ease.

Wrapping Up

Unfortunately, a bit of solar panel wear and tear is inevitable, but keeping your system in good shape isn’t as hard as it sounds. Invest in quality materials, make sure the panels are installed correctly, and maintain them regularly to enjoy efficient performance for decades.

Sources:

https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy12osti/51664.pdf