How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
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By Michael Zhang || Updated on 13rd March 2024
Michael Zhang is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience in the solar lights industry. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in product design and developing, gaining valuable expertise and insight into the industry. Known for his dedication and professionalism, Michael has contributed significantly to the growth and success of various solar lights projects. His extensive knowledge and hands-on experience make him a trusted authority in the field, and he continues to innovate and excel in his role.
As the core component of a solar light, the material, characteristics, and durability of solar panels are directly related to the performance and service life of the solar light. This article will focus on the material composition, characteristics, and durability of solar panels, aiming to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the basics of solar panels in order to better understand and select the right solar light for your needs.
Table of Contents
Epoxy Solar Panels
Material: These panels tpically consist of a layer of epoxy resin covering the solar cells.
Characteristics: Epoxy panels are lightweight, flexible, and often used in applications where flexibility is crucial, like on curved surfaces or portable solar devices.
Durability: They may not be as durable as glass-covered panels because the epoxy layer will yellow over time and wear off more easily. Lifespan is only about 1 year.
PET Laminated Solar Panels
Material: PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) is a type of plastic used as a substrate in these panels.
Characteristics: These panels are lightweight, moderately flexible, and less expensive than glass-laminated panels.
Durability: While less durable than glass, PET laminated panels offer decent protection for solar cells and are suitable for applications where weight and flexibility are essential. Lifespan is around 1-2 years.
Glass Laminated Solar Panels
Material: Glass is the primary layer covering the solar cells in these panels.
Characteristics: Glass-laminated panels are rigid, heavy, and more durable compared to epoxy or PET laminated panels. They offer better protection against environmental factors like hail, wind, and UV exposure.
Durability: Due to the robustness of the glass layer, these panels have a longer lifespan and are commonly used in residential and commercial installations. Lifespan is around 3-5 years.
CIGS Solar Panels
Material: CIGS solar panels use a semiconductor compound made of copper, indium, gallium, and selenium. This compound forms the photovoltaic layer that converts sunlight into electricity.
Characteristics: One of the significant advantages of CIGS panels is their flexibility. They can be manufactured on flexible substrates, making them suitable for applications requiring bendable or curved solar panels. Due to the thin-film nature of CIGS technology, these panels are lightweight compared to traditional crystalline silicon panels.
Durability: CIGS panels are resistant to temperature fluctuations and perform well in diverse climates. However, their long-term performance might be affected by prolonged exposure to moisture or extreme conditions. Lifespan is around 10-25 years.
Conclusion
Generally speaking, for solar lights for consumer products, PET laminated solar panels and glass laminated solar panels are generally chosen. If used for the most high-end commercial lighting, glass laminated solar panels and CIGS solar panels are recommended.
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