These investigations are in the best interest of all solar investors, as the more energy we can convert into solar power, the better!
Solar panels relieve strain on the National Grid, reduce our home’s carbon footprints, and help the UK’s Net Zero 2050 efforts. So, while researchers are busy making strides, it’s your responsibility to invest in the best solar equipment possible.
Is the quality of the solar panels important for your solar system?
Yes, of course! While cheaper solar panels may seem more cost-effective (in the short-term), you’ll likely end up paying more in repairs and maintenance.
These solar systems, manufactured using lower-quality materials, may also lose efficiency quicker than their more expensive, higher-quality counterparts. Trade-offs like these can lead to a slower return on investment.
Purchasing solar panels can be confusing at first, especially when you don’t know the importance of energy performance and output parameters. By working with an experienced installer, you can receive reliable solar products.
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Low degradation rate
Degradation rate refers to the gradual decline in a solar panel’s ability to produce electricity as it ages.
A study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that, on average, most solar panels experience a degradation rate of around 0.5% per year.
If we take this figure into account, panels that are in good working order over a typical 25-year lifespan would operate at around 87.5% of their original efficiency.
Opting for panels with a lower degradation rate (especially from reputable manufacturers) means that you will get the most energy from your investment.
Panels with advanced designs and high-quality materials often degrade at a slower rate, which results in more solar energy for your home per year.
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Efficiency
Solar panel efficiency measures how well a panel converts sunlight into electricity. The more efficient the panel, the more electricity it generates for the same amount of sunlight.
Efficiency is especially important if you have limited roof space. High-efficiency panels will produce more power per square metre, meaning you’ll need fewer panels to meet your energy needs.
However, solar panel efficiency ratings can vary depending on the quality of the solar cells, the design of the panel, and environmental conditions like temperature.
Higher efficiency systems generate more electricity, which translates into a quicker return on investment. Although purchasing efficient solar panels may require a higher initial cost, the long-term savings from this improved power output make it a worthwhile venture!
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Better ROI
Speaking of return on investment, high-quality solar panels often offer a better ROI because they are more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity.
You can generate more power with fewer panels and could even expect a payback period of around 5 to 10 years (over the typical 25-30-year lifespan of solar panels). Once this period is reached, the panels will continue generating savings for decades!
It’s also important to note that premium solar panels often come with longer warranties. Project Solar products have 25-year performance warranties, so you can benefit from stable energy production for many years to come.
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Enduring reliability
The materials and manufacturing processes used in high-end panels are designed to be reliable. They can withstand various environmental factors, from UV exposure to temperature fluctuations.
Higher-quality panels are often rigorously tested to withstand conditions like hail, high winds, and snow without compromising performance: this is essential for panels installed in the UK, which is well-known for its temperamental weather.
Cheaper solar panels may degrade much quicker under these conditions or potentially stop working entirely.
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Environmental sustainability
Solar panels are, by their very nature, a tool for climate change mitigation.
They help lower the carbon footprints of homes and businesses by reducing reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources (e.g. coal and natural gas).
Solar panels produce clean, renewable energy, which lessens the environmental damage caused by resource extraction.
As cheaper panels are also more prone to failure, their production can also result in frequent disposal of damaged panels. Cheap panels are often made with lower-grade materials that are harder to recycle, which creates additional e-waste.
High-quality solar panels, however, should perform at top efficiency and require only annual maintenance checks for optimal performance.
Join the solar takeover with Project Solar!
Solar energy has a large role in the UK’s renewable energy mix and will only become more important as time goes by. Why not play your part in the journey to Net Zero and make the switch today?
Project Solar offers 25-year warranties on our solar systems, so homes and businesses can make the most of their green tech for decades. To learn more, contact us.