How long do solar panels last?

Surprisingly, solar panel lifespan has always been extremely good. Given they have no moving parts, there is rarely something that can go wrong within the solar panel itself, which means they can keep generating electricity for a very long time. However, what has improved is the level a solar panel will be performing at after 25 years of usage.

How long does a solar system last?

Pumps on average will last around 10 years, and some electrical components such as controllers may need replacing. However, neither of these are prohibitively expensive. Check with your installer exactly what is covered by your warranty and what parts may need replacement during the overall lifespan of your solar system..

How long does a solar inverter last?

However, the inverter doesn't have the same longevity as solar panels. The Energy Saving Trust website says: "if you have a solar PV inverter, you need to replace this after around 12 years. This costs around £800, depending on system size and the manufacturer.

How long do solar batteries last?

If you are considering adding solar batteries to your PV system to store the electricity generated to use at a later date, these also have a shorter shelf life of anything from 5-15 years.

Do solar panels come with a warranty?

Solar panels usually come with two types of warranties: The product warranty covers defects in the solar panel itself and typically covers around 20-25 years, although some manufacturers offer longer warranties up to 30 years or beyond.

Are solar panels a good idea for your home?

As the shift toward a greener society continues, the demand for solar energy in UK homes continues to grow. While a report from Green Match found that installing solar panels could save the average home up to £1,005 a year in bills, installation and maintenance costs remain the key factors deterring many homes from switching to green energy.