Author(s):
1. Darko Divnić, Akademija nauka i umjetnosti Republike Srpske, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2. Dragoljub Mirjanić, Akademija nauka i umjetnosti Republike Srpske, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
3. Esad Jakupović, Academy of Sciences and Arts of the Republic of Srpska, Bana Lazarevića 1, 78000 Banja Luka, Republi, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
4. Zoran Ž. Avramović, University od Belgrade, Serbia
5. Ivana Radonjić Mitić, University of Niš, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Department of Physics, Višegradska 33, Niš, Serbia

Abstract:
The global transition to renewable energy sources depends on the long-term reliability of photovoltaic (PV) technologies. Silicon-based solar panels are the basic technology for the transition to renewable energy sources, representing a long-term secure capital investment. A thorough understanding of their operational lifetime and degradation mechanisms is essential for optimizing the return on investment and ensuring the stability of these energy systems. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the average operational lifetime of commercial silicon solar panels, investigating the primary degradation pathways and factors that influence changes in their performance. Many studies have shown that PV panels typically have a functional lifetime of 25 to 30 years, during which their efficiency declines at an average rate of approximately 0.5% to 0.8% per year. Also, the quality of production, compliance with international standards and proper maintenance play a key role in extending this operational lifetime. In this way, PV panels, although they can continue to produce electricity for more than 30 years, their economic viability decreases as the output power falls below a commercially acceptable threshold. We conclude that, although silicon remains the industry standard with the longest lifespan, continued research into the stability of thin-film panels and perovskites could pave the way for more diverse and high-quality use of solar energy.

Key words:
solar panels,silicon,lifespan,degradation,photovoltaic systems,renewable energy

Thematic field:
SYMPOSIUM A - Science of matter, condensed matter and physics of solid states

Date of abstract submission:
08.08.2025.

Conference:
Contemporary Materials 2025 - Savremeni Materijali

Applied paper from author