As one of the leading nations in the sustainability movement, Singapore continues to focus on eco-conscious efforts for a cleaner and healthier environment. Notably, we are witnessing a surge in solar power adoption, with more and more commercial buildings embracing this clean and renewable energy source that comes with various benefits, including cost-saving and eco-friendliness. However, it’s essential to understand that solar panels can degrade and suffer from lower performance over time This blog covers factors that affect solar panel degradation, providing insights into maximising their lifespan.
What Is Solar Panel Degradation?
Like any technology, solar panels in Singapore experience a gradual decline in performance every year, losing the potential to generate the same amount of power over time. While degradation is unavoidable, the speed at which it occurs depends on various factors, such as weather conditions or the quality of the panels. For instance, microcracks in the silicon of solar cells can develop over time, causing electrical connections to deteriorate solar panel efficiency over time. With fewer electron paths, less energy is transmitted from the solar panel to the inverter and into the building. Other issues like junction box adhesion failures and discolouration can also contribute to overall solar panel degradation.
Degradation Factors for Solar Panels
It is important to understand the factors that cause degradation in panels in order to address them. Some of the key factors are as follows:
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Thermal Cycling:
Fluctuating temperatures are responsible for causing expansion and contraction in panels, causing cracks and reducing overall performance.
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Harsh Weather:
Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds, is another reason why solar panels experience degradation faster than normal.
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Constant Exposure to the Sun:
Being constantly exposed to sunlight, particularly UV rays and heat, can degrade the solar cells, reducing their ability to convert sunlight into electricity.
How Solar Panels Lose Efficiency Over Time
Solar panels, on average, experience a gradual degradation of about 0.5-1% per year. This means that a building’s solar panels typically lose about 20% efficiency within their first 20 years. While high-quality solar panels can mitigate this decline, it’s important to understand the factors that have lasting effects on your energy savings. Even though we know solar panel degradation is inevitable, knowing how to slow it down can make a huge difference. Proper maintenance and smart installation are crucial in maximising the performance and overall solar panel lifespan.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Solar System
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Hire a Professional Installer:
Working with a solar panel specialist helps with proper installation, which is essential for long-term efficiency. A specialist will ensure that the building’s system is set up to minimise deterioration from environmental elements such as strong winds or excessive sun exposure.
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Right Installation Location:
When installing solar panels, placement is everything. Ensure the panels are positioned to avoid direct exposure to harsh conditions, especially in areas that experience heavy rainfall, high winds, or extreme sun exposure. This can help mitigate some of the external factors that lead to solar panel degradation.
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Regular Maintenance:
Properly maintaining these powerhouses will make sure that your building or business runs more efficiently for longer. Regular checks, like keeping your panels clean and monitoring their efficiency, will help you address any potential issues before they get worse. Therefore, schedule regular maintenance and make the most out of solar power in Singapore.
Conclusion
Degradation is a natural part of a solar panel’s lifespan, but knowing the right approaches can help you increase their efficiency and lifespan. Understanding all the factors that contribute to solar panel degradation, such as weather conditions and excessive UV rays, can help in extending solar panel lifespan by tackling these issues. By working with a reputable solar panel installer who understands the ins and outs of solar panels, you can mitigate the effects of degradation and enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy for years to come.
Want to learn more about how to protect your investment and maximise your solar panel system’s lifespan? Contact PMCE today for expert advice on solar panel solutions!