Solar panels .............. Lifespan ?

[mpprh]

Hi

I understand that photovoltaic panels have a limited life, after which the efficiency rapidly drops off.

As they have been available for 30+ years, I'd be glad to learn of peoples experiences.

Peter

 

[Danny Jo]

I'm about to remove three panels from Freestyle, fitted in 2002, I think. I didn't get a peep out of them last year.

 

[Bajansailor]

We have had our solar panel for just under 9 years now in the pretty fierce Caribbean sun, and it is still (touch wood!) charging the two batteries nicely.

 

[ccscott49]

<ine are only three years old, my bruvs are 20 years old and still fine, around the world.
I reckon if this other chaps have failed/not working, after only 5 years, I think there might be something else wrong?

 

[jerryat]

My two (Solarex) have been aboard for about ten years now and are still fine.

 

[maxi]

My Solarex failed after about 10yrs, with a mechanical fault rather than a simple reduction in efficiency.

 

[vyv_cox]

My first one has been in service for 11 years. It appears to be delaminating a little, as the clear plastic surface appears to be opaque, with air beneath it. It still seems to have about the same output as previously.

The regulator was fitted at the same time and has now been replaced. It was not a solid state unit and the relays began to stick about two years ago. The new one (Sunware) is totally solid state and seems to be working very well.

 

[trouville]

My 18w simens panel is 19 years old survived being droped overboard in 12 meters and staying there for a few days while i rented diveing gear. Mine lives aboard and charges the battery when im away keeping the bildge pump going (when its been raining)Keeps my batteries in good health.

My 85w BP panel is about 10 years old and still give full power,but that isent always onboard becouse of size.Ive just bought a compact 50w panel which was used for 6 years before i bought it this last weekend and also seems to be giveing a good charge