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What is solar panel degradation and how to detect it? Comment

by hvacrepair.blog


What is solar panel degradation and how to detect it? Comment

Solar panel degradation is the decline in their performance over time, an inevitable slow process that means producing less electrical energy for the same amount of sunlight. All solar panels degrade, but at different rates.

According to research, solar panels lose performance (degrade) by 0.5% per year, this is the average value. After 20 years, the solar panel will produce only 90% of the electrical energy produced in the first year of service.

Well-known manufacturers of solar panels use innovations in order to maximize the service life of equipment, making batteries more reliable and durable, capable of withstanding the most extreme conditions. Today there are models of solar panels for which manufacturers provide a 30-year power guarantee, for example SolarWatt.

The longer the service life of solar modules, the more electricity they can generate, the cheaper the cost of electricity will be. This is the most important factor in the economics of alternative energy.

Degradation of solar panels

Degradation detection methods

The easiest way is to compare the efficiency at certain intervals through an online solar power plant monitoring system. You can also use a voltmeter and measure the open circuit voltage to find specific degrading circuits, provided that all circuits are exactly the same and are operated under identical conditions. If access to the modules is difficult, the electroluminescent method can be used, but this requires special equipment.

Reasons for degradation of solar panels

  • The quality of the materials from which the modules are made. System elements made of cheap materials increase the risk of rapid breakdown of parts and failure of the entire system.
  • Type of solar panels. Thus, monocrystalline ones work effectively for 25-30 years, polycrystalline ones can work for 20 years, amorphous ones, depending on the technologies used, last from 7 to 20 years.
  • Climatic conditions. Hot climates, strong winds and high loads from the weight of snow negatively affect the integrity and efficiency of the modules.
  • Mechanical damage can lead to the formation of microcracks and damage the anti-reflective coating. This may cause the modules to overheat when exposed to ultraviolet light. Mechanical damage can be caused by hail, fallen tree branches, or birds making nests under the modules.
  • Pollution. Accumulating on the surface of solar panels, dirt and dust prevent solar cells from receiving sunlight, which leads to a loss of their operating efficiency of up to 5%. Dirt accumulates especially quickly on solar panels mounted on a flat surface.
  • Incorrect installation and incorrect connection with other components of the solar power plant. During installation, it is necessary to take into account the safety of solar modules and the technical characteristics of all elements, so their installation is best left to professionals.

Degradation of solar panels

Prevention measures

Considering the reasons for the degradation of solar panels, measures can be taken to prevent it:

  • qualified installation and timely maintenance,
  • purchasing panels from well-known manufacturers with a good reputation,
  • maintaining cleanliness. The panels should be cleaned twice a year, avoiding icing,
  • the presence of a high-quality anti-reflective coating that protects photocells and increases the efficiency of solar panels.

Monitoring the operation of the solar power plant and regular maintenance will extend the life of the system itself and all its elements.

Opportunities of REENERGO company

Do you need professional advice on choosing solar panels, ways to prevent degradation of solar panels, or choosing between PWM (PWM) or MPPT controllers? Contact REENERGO specialists who will help you select equipment and answer all your questions.

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