Solar Panel Durability: How Durable Are Solar Panels?

As extreme weather events—from massive hailstorms to historic flooding—become the new normal, homeowners are right to ask: How resilient are solar panels? Manufacturers design photovoltaic (PV) modules to withstand harsh conditions, but not all panels are engineered equally. Understanding solar panel longevity is essential for choosing a system that will reliably deliver power for decades, regardless of the climate.

When evaluating a system, look beyond the price tag. System robustness encompasses everything from weather resistance and mechanical strength to resistance against long-term degradation and robust equipment warranties. The GreenLancer team has more than a decade of experience in this field. If you have an existing system and need solar repairs or an inspection after a storm, contact us today.

The GreenLancer team has more than a decade of experience with solar panel durability. If you have an existing solar system and need solar repairs or an inspection, contact us today.

Contact GreenLancer

Solar Panel Durability Varies by Type

There are many types of PV modules used for residential and commercial solar power projects.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline panels are made from a single silicon crystal, giving them a sleek black look. They’re known for high efficiency and strong resilience, often outlasting polycrystalline panels. Their uniform structure makes them highly resistant to wear, stress, and weather-related damage, helping them maintain peak performance for decades.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels are made from multiple silicon crystals, giving them a blue look. They are typically less efficient and have a lower expected lifespan compared to monocrystalline options, but they are often more affordable. Because they are produced by melting silicon fragments together, they may degrade slightly faster over time. However, for homeowners looking for a budget-friendly solar solution, they can still be a reliable choice.

Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film panels are created by layering semiconductor material onto surfaces like glass or metal. They are known for their flexibility, lightweight design, and even semi-transparent options, making them ideal for certain niche applications. While they are usually less efficient than crystalline panels, they perform well in low-light conditions and high temperatures.

However, their overall robustness is typically lower than that of monocrystalline panels, meaning they may not last as long. This makes them a less long-lasting choice for homeowners prioritizing multi-decade energy production.

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)

BIPV systems blend solar technology with building materials like solar roof tiles or transparent solar windows. They both generate renewable energy and function as part of the building’s structure. The system longevity of BIPV depends heavily on the specific materials and how they are integrated. While some BIPV options offer long-lasting performance, others may have shorter lifespans compared to traditional rack-mounted panels.

Bifacial Solar Panels

Bifacial panels can capture sunlight from both the front and back, using reflected light from surfaces below to boost energy production. This means they can generate more power than traditional panels, especially if installed over bright surfaces like white roofs or light-colored pavement. While they are known for high efficiency, the long-term sturdiness of these panels depends on factors such as environmental conditions and precise installation.

The Anatomy of Resilience: Key Components That Ensure Longevity

If you're investing in solar, you need assurance that your system can handle years of exposure. So, how durable are solar panels? Modern modules are robust because they are constructed using several highly engineered layers designed to withstand the elements and maintain efficiency for decades.

Here are the critical components that provide this protection:

• Photovoltaic Cells: These silicon cells are the power core. They are not intrinsically rugged, which is why they must be carefully protected by the outer layers to ensure reliable, long-term performance.

• Encapsulation Layers: These protective sheets (often made of EVA or similar polymers) are sealed around the PV cells. Their primary job is to create a watertight, protective barrier that prevents moisture infiltration, which is a leading cause of panel failure and long-term degradation.

• Backsheet: This essential layer, located on the underside of the panel, insulates the electrical wiring and components. It acts as a shield against humidity and UV radiation, factors that can severely compromise a panel's toughness over time.

• Tempered Glass: The front surface is covered with specialized, low-iron tempered glass. This material is incredibly strong, acting as a shield against common weather hazards like hail, wind-blown debris, and flying stones, directly enhancing the panel’s immediate resilience.

• Aluminum Frame: The sturdy frame, typically made of lightweight aluminum, provides the mechanical strength and structure needed to absorb physical stress. It secures the panel to the racking system, ensuring stability under high wind loads and heavy snow.

Heat is the Enemy: Output and Long-Term Thermal Stress

When temperatures rise, solar panels face a dual challenge that impacts both their immediate power output and their long-term durability. Put simply, high heat causes solar panels to lose efficiency, meaning they produce less electricity as temperatures climb above optimal levels. This occurs because elevated temperatures interfere with the semiconductor materials inside the photovoltaic cells.

Measuring the Drop in Efficiency

To understand this immediate effect, we use the temperature coefficient. This metric measures the percentage by which a panel’s power output decreases for every degree Celsius the panel temperature rises above 77° F (25° C).

Most panels have a coefficient between -0.2% and -0.5% per degree Celsius. While a half-percent drop might sound small, on a blistering hot day, this can translate to a noticeable reduction in energy production.

Panel Type Matters in the Heat

Not all panels handle the heat equally. When selecting a system for a high-temperature region, material science becomes critical:

• Thin-film solar panels generally tend to perform best in hot weather due to their slightly lower temperature coefficient.

• Monocrystalline panels are typically superior to polycrystalline panels in heat resilience, making them a preferred choice for high-temperature installations where efficiency is paramount.

  
  

The Long-Term Impact: Thermal Stress

Beyond the daily reduction in output, prolonged exposure to high heat affects long-term durability. This is known as thermal stress. Extreme temperatures cause the various materials inside the panel—the silicon, the glass, the encapsulation layers, and the copper wiring—to expand and contract constantly. Over two or three decades, this cyclical stress can lead to wear on soldered connections, microcracks in the cells, and degradation of the backsheet seal.

Choosing high-quality panels specifically designed for heat resistance is the best defense against both daily energy loss and long-term thermal degradation.

Solar Panel Durability in Extreme Weather

Are solar panels truly durable enough to handle harsh weather? In short, yes. High-quality photovoltaic modules are rigorously tested to withstand the majority of extreme conditions, but maintaining long-term performance requires proper installation and maintenance from the owner.

1. Structural Resistance: Wind and Snow

As covered previously, the tempered glass and robust aluminum frame are designed to resist physical forces. Panel testing standards mandate resistance to significant loads, meaning a properly installed system should endure heavy snow and strong winds without issue.

When comparing brands, always check the structural ratings. A great resource for evaluating how different brands perform under long-term stress is the PVEL PV Module Reliability Scorecard, which provides independent, rigorous testing data.

2. The Problem of Soiling (Dirt and Debris)

While panels are structurally tough, their performance is immediately affected by surface buildup. Dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles can block sunlight, directly reducing the amount of electricity your panels generate. This issue, known as soiling, is particularly common in dry, dusty areas or near industrial sites.

Worse than simple output reduction, persistent soiling can cause hot spots. These are localized areas of high temperature on the panel that occur when a cell is completely shaded while connected cells are producing current. Over time, hot spots can damage solar cells and compromise the panel's overall durability.

Maintenance Tip: Regular cleaning keeps your system running efficiently. Use soft brushes and non-abrasive cleaning solutions to remove buildup without scratching the glass. Safe cleaning protects your panel's efficiency and extends its lifespan.

3. Rain, Storms, and Surge Protection

Heavy rain may temporarily reduce energy production, but it's often beneficial, naturally washing away dirt and dust.

The main durability threat during storms is not the rain itself, but lightning and the power surges that accompany it. A well-designed panel is inherently weatherproof, but the highly sensitive solar inverter—the brain of your system—is vulnerable.

Durability Strategy: To maintain overall system longevity in storm-prone areas, always ensure your inverter has proper shelter and is protected by a high-quality surge protector.

Snow Buildup on Solar Panels

Snow presents a temporary efficiency problem rather than a long-term durability threat. When snow completely covers the panels, it blocks sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells, halting energy production.

However, the panels themselves are built to be remarkably strong and can handle significant snow loads. This structural capacity is verified during the installation permitting process, where systems must follow local building codes and rigorous durability standards.

• Passive Snow Removal: In areas with heavy snowfall, solar panels are typically installed at a specific tilt angle to help the snow slide off naturally as the temperature rises or the panels generate heat.

• Safe Clearance: If clearing snow is necessary to maintain peak energy production, you must use caution. Be extremely careful to avoid scratching the glass surface, as this damage can compromise the panel's durability over time. Using a soft brush or a solar-specific snow removal tool is the safest approach. If accessing panels on the roof, prioritize safety and take extra precautions to prevent slipping in icy conditions.

Hurricanes & Solar Panels in High Winds

Modern solar systems are designed to handle severe dynamic weather, including strong winds and high wind loads associated with hurricanes.

Panel designs undergo rigorous evaluation under international standards, such as IEC 61215, which specifically tests their ability to withstand intense wind pressures. Panels that meet these high standards are built to endure severe storms without suffering mechanical damage.

In regions prone to hurricanes or high winds, solar permitting requires compliance with specific wind resistance regulations. These local requirements ensure your mounting system and panels are securely rated for the local climate risk. Working with an experienced installation team is key to ensuring your system meets all necessary engineering guidelines for durability and safety.

If your solar system isn’t working properly, GreenLancer can help. Whether your inverter is down, your panels aren’t producing as expected, or you need an inspection for insurance or resale purposes, our team connects you with professional solar repair and inspection services—available nationwide.

Contact GreenLancer

Component Protection in Flood-Prone Areas

While the solar panels themselves are waterproof, the long-term durability of a system in areas prone to flooding hinges on protecting the sensitive electrical components and wiring from water damage.

Safeguarding Electrical Infrastructure

The key to durability in a flood zone is meticulous installation practices, particularly regarding wiring and enclosures. Proper conduit routing and careful electrical installation are critical to ensure the safety and performance of solar systems where water is a recurring threat.

The primary risk mitigation strategies include:

• Weatherproof Enclosures: All sensitive electrical components and connections, including wiring terminations and essential electronics, must be designed to be completely waterproof or housed in high-rated weatherproof enclosures.

• Elevated Installation: Conduit routing is carefully planned to avoid low-lying, flood-prone areas. If necessary, additional measures such as elevated mounting for components like the inverter or physical flood barriers may be implemented to keep electronics safely above anticipated flood lines.

It is crucial to adhere strictly to local building codes and regulations specific to solar panel installations in flood-prone areas. These codes are designed to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the system and often dictate minimum elevation requirements for critical hardware.

Post-Storm Protocol: Inspecting Panels for Damage

Severe weather events—from hurricanes and high winds to heavy hail and ice storms—can test the limits of your system's structural durability. After any major event, a careful assessment is necessary to ensure the system is safe and functional, but safety is the absolute first priority.

1. Prioritizing Personal Safety

Never attempt to inspect your solar array if it is unsafe to do so.

• Check for Hazards: Before approaching the house or roof, look for dangers like downed power lines, sharp metal debris, or unstable tree limbs.

• Roof Conditions: Never climb onto a roof if it is wet, icy, unstable, or if high winds are still present.

• Call a Professional: If you suspect damage but cannot safely inspect the system from the ground, or if the system is still energized, immediately contact a licensed solar professional for a safe assessment.

  
  

2. Signs of Solar Panel Damage (Visual Check)

From a safe distance on the ground, visually inspect your entire array for these common signs of physical distress:

• Cracked or Shattered Glass: The protective glass surface is the first line of defense.

• Bent or Damaged Frames: Look for visible warping in the aluminum frames that secure the panels to the racking.

• Loose or Missing Panels: Panels that have shifted or detached entirely pose a severe hazard.

• Debris on the Array: Large debris, like fallen branches, can cause point pressure damage even if the glass isn't fully broken.

• Racking Integrity: Look for bent or loosened mounts and rail connections.

If you observe or suspect any damage, do not attempt to fix it yourself. As a precaution, if you have a readily accessible disconnect switch, shut down your system until a qualified technician can perform a full evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions On Solar Panel Durability

This section covers common and specialized questions regarding the expected lifespan, maintenance, and resilience of your solar photovoltaic (PV) system under various environmental conditions.

How long are solar panels expected to last?

Most modern solar panels are designed to operate effectively for 25 to 30 years. The standard performance warranty typically guarantees that the panels will still produce at least 80% to 85% of their original output after 25 years. The system's actual physical lifespan often exceeds this, provided components are properly maintained.

What is the difference between a Product Warranty and a Performance Warranty?

• Product Warranty (or Equipment Warranty): This covers the physical panel against defects in manufacturing, materials, and workmanship (e.g., frame failure, glass cracking, or defective junction boxes). These are typically 10 to 12 years.

• Performance Warranty (or Power Output Warranty): This guarantees that the panel will maintain a certain minimum power output over time. For example, it guarantees the panel will still produce 90% of its rated power after 10 years and 80% after 25 years.

Can solar panels withstand heavy hail?

Yes. Modern solar panels are designed and rigorously tested to withstand significant impact. Panels receive an IEC 61215 certification, which includes a hail test where ice balls approximately 1 inch (25mm) in diameter are fired at the panel at high speeds (around 50-70 mph). However, extremely large, jagged, or dense hail stones can still cause damage.

Are solar panels truly waterproof, or will rain damage them?

The panels themselves are designed to be completely waterproof and weather-sealed against rain, snow, and ice. The aluminum frame, glass, and backing material create a sealed, durable unit. Water risks mainly concern the electrical connections and components behind and under the panels, which is why proper conduit routing and sealed enclosures are essential.

How does snow load affect the system's longevity?

All racking and panel systems are engineered and installed based on the maximum predicted snow load for the local region. Installers use mounting hardware rated to handle hundreds of pounds per square foot. While deep snow may temporarily cover and stop energy production, it is highly unlikely to cause structural damage unless the panel was improperly installed.

Do I need to clean my solar panels regularly?

In most residential environments, natural rain is usually sufficient to wash away common dirt, pollen, and debris. Cleaning is typically only necessary if there is heavy build-up (like thick dust from a drought, or bird droppings) that begins to noticeably impact performance. If you do clean them, use water and a soft brush, and never use abrasive chemicals or high-pressure washers.

How often should I get a professional inspection?

Beyond the post-storm inspection, an inspection every three to five years is advisable. A professional can check for things you can't see, such as:

• Degradation in wiring insulation.

• Loosening of racking bolts and mounting hardware.

• Issues with the inverter or disconnect switches.

• Cell damage (micro-cracks) invisible to the naked eye, often detected using thermal imaging.

What are "micro-cracks," and how do they affect durability?

Micro-cracks are tiny, hairline fractures within the silicon cells, often caused by thermal stress (rapid temperature changes) or physical trauma (like accidental dropping during transport or installation). Over time, these cracks can grow, leading to the affected part of the cell becoming inactive (a "hot spot"), which reduces the panel's overall power output and shortens its effective life.

Solar Panels Are Durable and Built For Extreme Weather

The durability of solar panels allows them to handle extreme weather, and adding battery storage can help keep power running during outages. After Hurricane Maria, tens of thousands of solar systems with batteries were installed in Puerto Rico, proving how resilient solar can be in tough conditions.

A well-designed solar system improves durability with strong mounting, weather-resistant materials, and monitoring systems that detect issues early. These features help solar panels stay secure and perform efficiently even in harsh weather.

If your solar system needs an inspection or repairs after severe weather, the GreenLancer team is available nationwide. Complete the form below to get started.