What is the approximate lifespan of a photovoltaic module?

The lifespan of photovoltaic modules is generally around 20 to 30 years, with the detailed analysis as follows:

Material differences: Crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules (including monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon): average lifespan of about 25 to 30 years, dominating the market, high photoelectric conversion efficiency, lower equipment cost, and overall stable performance. Amorphous silicon photovoltaic modules: average lifespan of about 15 to 20 years, with relatively rapid efficiency degradation, generally around 0.5% to 1%, with some modules potentially reaching 15% degradation within a month, though subsequent degradation gradually stabilises. Other material photovoltaic modules (such as thin-film solar cells): the lifespan can also reach around 20 to 30 years, with higher equipment costs, but lower consumption and battery costs, relatively lower photoelectric conversion efficiency, but good low-light performance.

Influencing factors: Product quality: High-quality photovoltaic modules generally have a longer service life. Poor-quality modules often reduce costs by cutting corners, with initial degradation possibly exceeding 5% and annual linear degradation even exceeding 1%, resulting in an actual lifespan of less than 15 years. Environmental conditions: Environmental factors such as windblown sand, pollution, and climate change can accelerate the aging and damage of photovoltaic modules. For example, modules used in cold temperate zones show significantly better maximum power degradation than those in sub-humid hot and warm temperate climate zones. Operation and maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of photovoltaic modules, and timely replacement of damaged components, can extend their service life. It is also necessary to regularly check the electrical and mechanical performance of the modules to ensure they meet the requirements for normal power generation.