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How solar panel performance changes over time
Have you noticed your solar panels aren't performing like they used to?
If you've invested in solar panels, you've probably wondered how long they'll actually last. We get this question all the time at Easy Being Green, and it makes sense. After all, you're relying on these panels to cut down your bills. But here's something important to consider: solar panels don’t stay at 100% forever, but they do hold up better than you'd expect.
How quickly do solar panels lose performance?
Every solar panel loses a small amount of output each year. On average, the rate is about 0.5% per year, meaning after about 20 years, you can expect your panels to be running at around 90% of their original capability. Research from NREL backs this up, showing that high-quality panels degrade even slower—sometimes as little as 0.2% per year.
We’ve noticed Australian homeowners often worry this degradation might happen quickly. It doesn't. Your panels won't suddenly drop to 80% overnight. Instead, the process is gradual, and most people won’t notice any significant drop in output for years.
Why do solar panels degrade?
The main reason solar panels lose performance is constant exposure to the harsh Australian sun. Yes, the same sunlight that powers your panels slowly wears them down. This is especially true for mono-crystalline panels, the ones most Australian homes have installed. A detailed study from Nature found that weather conditions—particularly heat—have the biggest impact.
Another factor we've observed is the quality of installation. At Easy Being Green, our approach focuses heavily on careful, quality installation to ensure your panels last as long as possible. Improper installation can lead to quicker deterioration, which is why working with an experienced team is crucial.
Can anything speed up solar panel degradation?
You might be surprised, but dust and dirt can speed up degradation. Over time, layers of dust can lead to micro-scratches when it rains. These tiny scratches might not seem like much, but they gradually reduce the effectiveness of your panels.
One solution? Regular, gentle cleaning. It’s simple, effective, and something we recommend to all our customers. We’ve found panels kept clean degrade more slowly—it's that straightforward.
Can you slow down the degradation?
Absolutely! The first step is quality. Investing in good quality solar panels right from the start is key. Cheaper panels often degrade quicker. We’ve installed hundreds of systems around Victoria and New South Wales, and quality panels consistently outperform cheaper alternatives.
Another approach we recommend is pairing your panels with a reliable solar battery system. This helps manage energy flow better, which indirectly reduces stress on your panels, extending their lifespan and maintaining high performance for longer.
What’s the realistic lifespan of solar panels?
Most Australian homes can expect their panels to last around 25 to 30 years. This doesn’t mean they stop working at this point; it simply means they reach about 80% performance. With proper care and quality equipment, it's not uncommon to see solar panels going strong beyond the 30-year mark.
If you’re already seeing lower performance, it might be worth reaching out to us to check the health of your panels. Often, simple adjustments or cleaning can bring them back to peak performance.
Are newer panels getting better?
Definitely. Solar technology has improved dramatically in the last decade. Today's panels degrade more slowly, deliver higher outputs, and are better equipped to handle harsh climates. If your system is over ten years old, upgrading might significantly boost your home's solar capabilities.
We've seen this firsthand. For example, upgrading older panels to newer, more efficient ones often gives homeowners a noticeable improvement in their electricity savings.
What does this mean for you?
If you’ve invested in solar or are thinking about it, performance degradation isn't a massive concern—especially with modern equipment. With regular care, proper installation, and high-quality products, your solar investment should comfortably meet your expectations.
And if you're ever uncertain or simply curious about how your solar is performing, we’re always here to help. Remember, at Easy Being Green, we’ve helped over 800,000 Australian households and businesses switch to renewable energy—it's what we do best.
Interested in understanding more about solar performance or want advice on maintaining your system? Contact us today—we’d love to hear from you.
