REC Solar · panel

REC Solarnatural panel degradation

All solar panels degrade over time, and REC Solar panels are no exception. With an expected lifespan of 28 years, you should expect roughly 0.5–0.8% efficiency loss per year under normal conditions. However, panels in hot climates or with manufacturing defects can degrade faster.

Natural panel degradation is a known issue for REC Solar panels. This doesn't mean it will affect your system — but it's worth monitoring.

Natural panel degradation details

All solar panels lose efficiency over time at roughly 0.5–0.8% per year. Accelerated in extreme heat or poorly manufactured panels.

Typical loss: 315%Detection: monitoringLikelihood: common

Self-check tip:

Compare current annual production to your system's first-year output. A decline beyond 1% per year may indicate accelerated degradation.

Brand lifespan

28 years

Warranty

25 years

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Use our free Solar Loss Checker to estimate how much energy your REC Solar system may be losing.

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Based on conservative solar performance modelling and published degradation data

NRELIEA-PVPSSunSpecPVsyst+ published research

Updated April 2026 · Structured performance modelling

How we calculate →

Other REC Solar issues

Natural panel degradation — other brands