Maximizing the Lifespan of Solar Panels: Maintenance and Repair Tips
The sun's power is being harnessed across Australia, marking a significant shift towards renewable energy. The country's Energy Market Operator hailed the final months of 2025 as a 'landmark moment', with renewable energy's share surpassing 50% for the first time. This achievement is attributed to the widespread adoption of rooftop solar panels, with approximately 4.3 million households (around one in three) installing them, boasting a combined capacity of over 28 GW.
However, as more homes embrace renewable energy, a recent study by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) has revealed a concerning trend: solar panels are failing faster than anticipated. This development prompts important considerations when purchasing solar panels for your home or business, especially in the face of increasingly volatile and extreme weather conditions.
The study, involving the analysis of 11,000 photovoltaic samples, concluded that around one in five panels performed 1.5 times worse than expected. This means that instead of the anticipated 25-year lifespan, 20% of panels may start failing as early as 12 years. The key issues identified include internal failures due to panel interactions, poor quality control leading to manufacturing defects, and other factors causing performance decline over time.
Yang Tang, a research author, noted, 'System performance typically declines by around 0.9% per year, but we observed extreme degradation rates in some systems, potentially leading to a 45% output loss by the 25-year mark.'
While individual experiences with solar panels may vary, simple home maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan. Tim Forcey, author of 'My Efficient Electric Home Handbook', installed solar panels in his Melbourne home in 2008 and has since added 22 more, meeting all his electricity needs. During a severe hailstorm, the panels survived, and Forcey attributes this to proper installation and maintenance, including keeping them clean and at an angle to prevent water and mud accumulation.
Brendan Lang, an electrician and founder of Get Off Gas, emphasizes the importance of using quality products, expert local installers, and regular maintenance to minimize the risk of panel failure. He advises, 'Just as you wouldn't expect a car to run perfectly after 25 years without servicing, renewable energy systems require regular maintenance for optimal performance and longevity.'
Regular servicing offers the added benefit of monitoring panel performance. If a significant drop in performance is detected, a warranty claim can be made (typically 25 years for quality panels).
When repairs are necessary, the decision to fix or replace a panel depends on various factors. Finn Peacock of Solar Quotes suggests that if only one panel fails, a suitable replacement can be found, provided it matches the physical size and specifications. Inverter issues can often be resolved with secondhand inverters installed by a skilled technician.
Peacock advises, 'A reputable original installer will likely have spares or access to them from the manufacturer. As a last resort, you can remove or bypass the faulty panel, albeit with a minor energy loss. However, for systems over six years old, replacing the entire array with more efficient panels is recommended, potentially allowing for a solar panel rebate claim.'
It's crucial to ensure proper recycling when replacing panels, as many installers may not prioritize this step due to the associated costs. Peacock emphasizes the importance of verifying recycling efforts and obtaining a receipt to ensure environmental responsibility.
