Solar Panel test recent PBO ?!

[jfkal]

Having read the solar panel test some issues back, I wonder about one factor not being tested: How long do they last? Not unimportant considering the price.
Would be great if the forumites would comment based on their experience on the tested and perhaps other brands.

 

[AngusMcDoon]

My Unisolar flexible 32W panel is still going strong at 6 years old. No noticeable reduction in output, which sometimes the flexible ones are reputed to suffer from.

 

[alienzdive]

My uncle has had a solar power on his boat for about 20-25 years now, not sure what make, and sure that it is not as efficient as the newer ones, but still running on and on.

 

[jerryat]

My old Solarex 30 watt panel was fine for about six years, then began to allow water to seep in under the laminate/stainless steel sheet backing in a couple of places. This was particularly annoying as I'd lipped the thing all round with a heavy duty 'U' shaped neoprene trim bedded in mastic from new. No damage had been done anywhere.

At about the same time, water penetrated the kevlar laminate on the surface and corroded the circuitry at random points in about five places. I removed enough kevlar to expose these joints, cleaned them, re-soldered the connection and sealed with a blob of silicone.

The panel still produces it's rated output, but I would hesitate to buy one again, preferring to go a bit bigger (55w) as we have, with aluminium frames and glass protection.

HTH's

 

[HenryB]

Jerry,
I've exerienced exactly the same with my pair of Solarex - the 30 watt "flat" unit started delaminating after 3 years, the solid framed unit seems perfect after 6 years.

Henry.

 

[simonfraser]

my unisolar ones are 5 yrs old and not showing any wear

 

[maxi]

My Solarex suffering deterioration at 8 years, diy repaired and still producing it's full rated power -but not for a lot longer I guess.

 

[andy_wilson]

Most manufacturers guarantee 80% of rated power for 5 years...

whatever that means.

I guess they expect some fall off of power over a protracted period.

 

[William_H]

I have had series of small panels over the years. They failed from external damage or corrosion from moisture seeping between the glass and the cells.
I can't quote brands etc but I do hold the guarantee as being valuable and would choose a panel from a relaible brand name in anticipation of likely guarantee claim. olewill