Solar basics
Most panels are warrantied for 25 years, and keep producing well beyond that.
Short answer: Most residential solar panels carry a 25-year performance warranty and typically continue generating electricity after that period. Panel output degrades slowly—commonly around 0.5% per year—so a panel still produces roughly 85–90% of its original output after 25 years.
Most residential solar panels carry a 25-year performance warranty. This warranty guarantees that the panel will still produce a certain percentage of its original output after 25 years—typically 80–85%.
The warranty does not mean your panels will stop working after 25 years. It simply sets a baseline for how much performance the manufacturer is willing to guarantee over that period.
In practice, panels typically keep generating electricity after the warranty period, just at gradually reduced output. Many systems installed in the 1980s and 1990s are still producing power today.
Panel output degrades slowly, commonly around 0.5% per year. That means after 10 years, a panel might produce about 95% of its original output; after 25 years, roughly 85–90%.
Degradation rates vary by panel type, climate, and installation quality. Modern panels from reputable manufacturers tend to degrade more slowly than older models. Extreme weather, shading, and poor maintenance can accelerate the decline, while well-maintained systems in temperate climates may see even slower degradation.
Because the decline is gradual, you're unlikely to notice a dramatic drop in performance from year to year. Monitoring systems can track output over time and alert you to any unusual changes.
While solar panels can last 25 years or more, inverters have a shorter life than panels, often 10–15 years, and may need one replacement over the system's life. String inverters (the most common type) typically fall in that range, though some newer models and microinverters may come with longer warranties.
Replacing an inverter is a normal part of solar ownership and is far less expensive than replacing the entire array. Budgeting for an inverter replacement in your long-term financial planning can help avoid surprises.
Other components—racking, wiring, and junction boxes—are generally built to last the life of the system, though occasional maintenance or repairs may be needed if weather or wildlife causes damage.
Proper installation is the first step. Panels should be securely mounted, with adequate ventilation and drainage, and installed by a licensed professional who follows manufacturer guidelines and local codes.
Once installed, solar panels require minimal maintenance. Periodic cleaning to remove dirt, leaves, and debris can help maintain efficiency, especially in dusty or pollen-heavy areas. In most climates, rain does much of the work.
Regular monitoring through an app or inverter display lets you catch issues early. If you notice a sudden drop in output, contact your installer to diagnose the problem. Many systems also benefit from an annual inspection to check wiring, mounting hardware, and inverter performance.
Not necessarily. Because panels typically keep generating electricity after the warranty period, many homeowners continue using their original array for 30 years or more. The decision to replace or upgrade depends on your energy needs, the condition of the system, and advances in technology.
After 25–30 years, newer panels will likely be more efficient and less expensive per watt. If you're planning a major roof repair or re-roof, it may make sense to upgrade your array at the same time. Otherwise, running your existing system until it no longer meets your needs is often the most economical choice.
When the time does come to retire old panels, recycling programs are becoming more widely available. Check with your installer or local waste-management authority for options in your area.
FAQ
Sources: NREL. Reviewed 2025-04-15. Figures are estimates; verify current incentives with the cited sources.