Degradation modes of photovoltaic systems
Photovoltaic system reliability and durability

A solar power plant is designed to operate for at least 30 years. During its operational life, it will be exposed to outdoor weather conditions that will affect its long-term output.

The main environmental stresses are detailed below.

• Temperature

  Solar power generation is directly related to the operating temperature of the photovoltaic module. In the vast majority of cases, a higher operating temperature will reduce electricity generation. For example, silicon-based photovoltaic technology will generate between 0.25% and 0.35% less electricity for every additional degree. High temperatures also affect the aging of photovoltaic module encapsulants. Temperature acts as an accelerator and increases the risk of faster degradation,...