Solar Panels are extremely durable energy generating units that require low maintenance due to their build quality and the installation process but it is good to know for how long a solar panel can generate power before it needs to be replaced and why a solar panel is so durable and reliable
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Solar Panels usually operate for 25 to 30 years without any drops on their processing power, after which they degrade over time and produce energy at a slower rate, they still operate but it is advised to change the solar panels since the power generated will less than what you are used to and it will lead to many appliances not operating as well. The duration of the Solar Panel depends on the quality of the Solar Panel and its installation quality. If the solar panel is cheaply made and the installation is faulty then it will affect the quality and the longevity of the solar panel.
Why Do Solar Panels Last So Long?
Solar Panels are mainly made up of 6 components:
1. Solar or photovoltaic cells
This is the most important component of a solar panel. They trap sunlight which leads to the production of Solar Energy. The quality of these cells determine the effectiveness of the solar system and make it so that the system works well.
2. Solar Glass
It is the outermost part of the solar panel which protects the solar panel from dust, rain and other debris. The quality of the glass should be clear and made at high quality to ensure that the solar panel is safe and can process sunlight at the pace it is advertised.
3. Back-Sheet
It is the Sheet on the back of the solar panel which makes it an electronically isolator since it is made of polymers which is a non conducting material which makes it an insulator of the electrical process that happens inside a solar panel. Without this the electric charge would be exposed into the environment which would cause more damage.
4. Encapsulant material
This is a type of polymer that is put over all the solar cells which makes it so that the solar cells don’t overheat. It also ensures that the solar cells can operate longer and are more durable. The polymer is usually Ethyl Vinyl Acetate or EVA, is placed over the cells and then heat sealed in order to ensure that each cell is wrapped.
5. Frame
The Frame of the Panel is what keeps it together and ensures that it doesn’t come apart. It is usually made out of Aluminum. Aluminium is a light material which has a lot of strength and the solar panel being heavy makes it so that the frame needs to be light so it is easier to install and strong enough to protect the solar panel.
6. The Junction Box
The Junction box is the final component. It provides the necessary connections to the solar panel. It is the energy system that makes sure that the power is being transferred properly from the solar panel to the electric grid which powers the appliances. It also prevents any electric shocks and stray currents from forming.
Out of the 6 main components 5 of them are designed to protect the solar panel. The Solar Glass, Back-Sheet, Encapsulant material, frame and junction box are all made to be durable because of the regulations on the construction of the solar panel and the quality of products needed to make solar panels need to be high. Therefore the quality of the solar panel is extremely important. If you are unsure where to find high quality solar panels, we offer solar panels as well. To buy high quality solar panels click here.