Solar Panel Longevity: How Long Should a Solar Panel Last?

Updated: June 18, 2025

How long do Solar Panels Last in Arizona? The key determining factor for solar panel longevity comes down to the quality of the products installed. Quality products perform better, for longer. But how much longer? With solar panels increasing in popularity and affordability over the years, more homeowners are making the switch to save on their energy bills from the utility company while increasing their home value. This article explores some of the major factors that can impact the performance of your solar panels and their longevity. At Solar Topps, we serve the entire state of Arizona, as we are based in centralized Phoenix.

Understanding Solar Degradation and Solar Longevity

Solar panels are best understood in terms of “how much energy will it produce over time.” Most power production rates will decrease (or degrade) over the life of the system, which is typically warranted for 25 years. Most solar panels lose between two percent to three percent of their power in the first year. Afterward, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, degradation on a standard solar panel is about 0.5 percent per year. 

Factors that Impact Solar Panel Longevity

Several factors can impact solar panel longevity how they will degrade. These include the quality of the solar panel, how they are installed, and general maintenance performed on the system. 

Reducing the Amount of Degradation Increases Solar Panel Longevity

1. Choosing a Quality Panel for Phoenix Residents

It all starts with quality products. Solar Topps prides itself on providing the best value in solar by offering only premium products at competitive prices.  

Before you sign a contract, request the “spec (or data) sheet” of the panels the solar provider will install on your home. This will show you the Performance Warranty which shows how much power the panel will lose in Year 1, what the annual degradation will be thereafter, and what percentage of the nameplate (initial wattage) the panel will produce in Year 25.  

An Example of a Standard Solar Panel Degradation

Let’s use the example from the NREL of a standard solar panel that loses on average 0.5% per year. If we use three percent as an initial degradation rate in Year 1, a system will lose an additional 12% over the next 24 years (24 multiplied by 0.5). In total, over 25 years, a standard panel will produce about 15% less energy than it did when first installed. So, if you were saving $100 with that panel on Day 1, in 25 years, you would only be saving $85.00.  

Let’s run that same scenario but with the premium products that Solar Topps uses. The REC Alpha Pure series of panels degrades about 2% in Year 1. Then, an average of only 0.25 percent per year thereafter, and in Year 25, it will produce 92% of its nameplate capacity. Meaning, if it is a 400 Watt panel, in Year 25, it will be producing 368 Watts. Using these premium products, you will maintain $92 of the original $100 savings even after 25 years of installation. Each day, each month, and each year that passes, these savings add up and help keep your energy bills lower.

2. Choosing the Right Solar Partner in Arizona for Solar Longevity

The right solar company makes all the difference. Some things to look for when looking for a residential installer would be: 

• Employs its own teams of engineers, installers and service technicians. 
• Maintains a single point of contact and accountability during and after your installation 
• Reduces any downtime you experience if your system has issues once operational 

Since 2009, Solar Topps has been the most trusted name in Arizona when it comes to all things solar. Our in-house team of engineers and installers collaboratively works to install each of our systems with precision, ensuring they deliver maximum power throughout their lifespan. As a result, most of our customers’ systems are overproducing when compared to their initial estimates. This is a testament to our longevity and desire to provide the best value in all things solar, battery backup, and EV charging. 

3. Maintaining Your Solar System  for Phoenix, AZ

Solar Panels lack moving parts, requiring only minimal maintenance. However, you should address aspects that might affect production, such as shading from nearby trees or soiling from dust storms, as necessary to maximize your system’s output. After any heavy dust or rainstorms, it is advisable to wash your panels using a hose either early in the morning or late in the evening when the system is off. You can do this by just standing on the ground, no need to get up on your roof. This will help you understand How Long Solar Panels Last in Arizona.

Do different Types of Solar Panels have different Longevity?

Yes, the longevity of solar panels can vary depending on the type of panel used. The most common types of solar panels are monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film panels, and each has unique characteristics affecting its lifespan. Monocrystalline panels tend to have the longest lifespan, often lasting 25 to 30 years with minimal degradation, thanks to their high-quality silicon construction. Polycrystalline panels, while slightly less efficient, typically have a comparable lifespan, though they may degrade at a slightly faster rate. Thin-film panels, on the other hand, generally have a shorter lifespan of around 10 to 20 years due to their less durable construction. Regardless of the type, proper maintenance and optimal installation conditions significantly impact the long-term performance and durability of any solar panel system.

Main Takeaway about Solar Longevity: How Long Should Your Panels Last

Although typically measured in 25 Year terms, not all solar panel longevity is the same. Quality panels produce more energy for longer periods, which helps you save more money on your energy bills long term. Quality panels usually come with better warranty terms. If something goes wrong, your system will be covered. Solar panels require minimal maintenance, but it’s advisable to keep them free of shade, debris, and soiling to get the most out of them every day. For a free quote on how Solar Topps can help you save the most with your solar panels and have them stand the tests of time, visit our website.