Do Solar Panels Degrade Over Time? Here’s What You Need to Know...

What Is Solar Panel Degradation?

Solar panel degradation refers to the gradual decline in performance as panels age. Research shows that the average degradation rate is about 0.5% per year. That means after 20 years, your panels will still generate around 90% of their original output. In a recent article by SolarQuotes, independent data supported these findings across numerous panel brands and installations.

“We only install products that meet the highest standards. Degradation is normal, but with good-quality panels and proper installation, it’s minimal,” says Lee Rolfe, Managing Director at Wright Renewables.

What Affects Degradation Rates?

Several factors influence how quickly a panel degrades:

• Panel quality: Cheaper, unbranded panels degrade more quickly. At Wright Renewables, we only supply tier-one solar panels with proven performance records.
• Installation quality: Poor installs can lead to microcracks and overheating. As trusted solar system installers in South Yorkshire, our team ensures every system is installed to the highest industry standards.
• Weather and UV exposure: Extreme heat and sunlight can speed up wear. Fortunately, the UK’s milder climate actually helps reduce degradation rates compared to sunnier regions.

Why It Shouldn’t Put You Off

Even after two decades, most solar systems continue to produce reliable energy, helping reduce your electricity bills and carbon footprint. Most panels come with 25 to 30-year performance warranties, offering extra peace of mind.

At Wright Renewables, we support you beyond installation with:

• Ongoing maintenance and servicing
• Manufacturer-backed warranties
• A local, responsive aftercare team

“Degradation is simply part of a panel’s natural life. With today’s technology, it’s hardly noticeable its more likely that solar panel performance is affected by contamination such as Sahara dust” adds Adam Roberts, Development Directer, Wright Renewables

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Yes, it's true—Saharan dust can significantly impact solar panel performance, even in regions like the UK. These fine particles, carried by winds from North Africa, can travel thousands of miles and settle on solar panels, reducing their efficiency.

How Saharan Dust Affects Solar Panels

1. Reduced Sunlight Penetration: Dust particles scatter and absorb sunlight, diminishing the amount of solar radiation that reaches the panels. This leads to decreased electricity generation.
2. Physical Soiling: When dust accumulates on the surface of solar panels, it creates a layer that blocks sunlight. This soiling can reduce panel efficiency by up to 20% during dust events.
3. Increased Maintenance Needs: The presence of dust necessitates more frequent cleaning of solar installations to maintain optimal performance.

Mitigation Strategies

To combat the effects of Saharan dust on solar panels:

• Regular Cleaning: Implementing a routine cleaning schedule can help maintain panel efficiency. However, cleaning should be avoided during heatwaves to prevent thermal stress on the panels.
• Technological Innovations: Developing and deploying dust mitigation technologies, such as self-cleaning coatings or robotic cleaners, can help sustain solar energy growth

Self‑Cleaning Coatings

To reduce the burden of regular washing and improve long‑term performance, several coating technologies are gaining traction:

✳ Hydrophobic Coatings

These create a water‑repellent surface so rainwater beads up and rolls off, carrying dust with it. Certain hydrophobic treatments combined with nanotexturing have achieved up to 98 % dust removal

✳ Hydrophilic Coatings

These work by spreading water evenly over the surface, forming thin films that lift and wash away dirt. Though less common than hydrophobic options, they can be effective on flatter, less dusty panels.

✳ Photocatalytic Coatings

Typically based on titanium dioxide (TiO₂), these coatings use UV light to break down organic contaminants, reducing grime build‑up and improving natural rainfall wash‑off. Studies show co‑deposition of nano textures and TiO₂ can cut dust deposition rates significantly over bare glass

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A Smarter Energy Future

Going solar is still one of the smartest energy decisions you can make. With rising energy costs, increasing incentives, and the growing push for decarbonisation, solar panel installation in Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire is more valuable than ever.

To learn more about our Solar PV solutions, visit:
🔗 Solar Panels

We’re based in Worksop, proudly serving our local community with trusted advice, expert installation, and systems built to last

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