Mitigating Solar Panel Degradation in a Warming Climate: Strategies and Solutions
Australia aims to achieve 82% renewable energy in its grid by 2030, a goal that will heavily rely on the increased deployment of solar energy. However, as the installation of solar panels accelerates, the challenges posed by climate change become more apparent, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent.
Solar panels, essential for harnessing solar energy, are designed to withstand various weather conditions such as heat, snow, rain, and wind. Despite their durability, climate change poses a threat to the longevity of solar panels, potentially leading to faster degradation.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Degradation
The degradation of solar panels over time is influenced by a variety of factors, including the climate, materials used, and manufacturing techniques. Most solar manufacturers offer warranties ranging from 25 to 30 years, ensuring that the power output of the panels does not decrease by more than 20% during that period.
Silicon, the predominant solar technology, degrades gradually due to environmental stress, voltage fluctuations, and mechanical strains. Factors such as humidity, ultraviolet radiation, and temperature play a significant role in causing damage to silicon modules.
Impact of Climate Change on Solar Degradation
Research indicates that solar degradation rates in
