Will My Solar System Become Less Efficient Over Time?

Over time, it is only natural that the hardware in your solar system will degrade, just as any other piece of electrical equipment might. Influences such as UV exposure, harsh weather events, and electrical current leakage (see video on Potential Induced Degradation below) cause the system to perform slightly less than its initial potential each year. In general, you can expect your solar system to produce roughly 82.5-87.5% of its original output by the end of its 25-year lifespan (EnergySage, 2019).

It was determined in a 2021 study by the National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) that this rate of decline, termed "solar panel degradation rate", is an average of 0.8% each year. However, in the time since this study was published, design and production of solar technology have improved. It is common in newer panels to see lower rates of decline in energy output. Still, some solar panel models/makes will be higher quality than others; therefore, it's important to conduct careful research prior to committing to a certain solar system.

Can you slow the Rate of Degradation?

While solar panel degradation is largely inevitable, you can help ensure that your system is not degrading at a higher-than-expected rate by keeping up with its maintenance. Solar systems do require some tender loving care during their long lifespans to continue operating healthily. If you are reading this article, your solar system is likely being serviced by Omnidian. Thus, you've already secured the most important component in successfully maintaining your system: a trusted monitoring and technical maintenance strategy. We aim to provide this peace of mind for the lifetime of your solar system.

We are keeping a close eye on the system's performance and will notify you anytime we detect an issue and servicing is required, so that we can help you resolve the problem quickly and with minimal energy loss. (Remember that this also relies on the promptness of your response to our outreach — don't forget to check that email and voicemail frequently!)

What is Potential-Induced Degradation (PID)?

Solar basics: What causes solar panel degradation? - YouTube

Solar basics: What causes solar panel degradation? Solar Power World