How Long Do Commercial Solar Panels Last?

A Straightforward Answer for Ohio Businesses

When investing in commercial solar panel installation, one of the most common questions we hear is:

"How long will the panels last?"

Let’s clear that up.

The Short Answer:

Commercial solar panels typically last 25–30 years.

That doesn’t mean they stop working after 30 years—they just become slightly less efficient over time. Most Tier 1 panels still produce 80–85% of their original output after 25 years.

What About Other Components?

• Inverters – usually last 10–15 years

• Batteries – lifespan varies (generally 10–20 years, depending on chemistry and usage)

At BC Solar, we only use Tier 1 panels and components—which means:

• Tested for durability in Ohio’s climate (snow, ice, heat, wind)

• Backed by strong manufacturer warranties

• Selected for performance in both grid-tied and battery-based systems

Why It Matters

Commercial systems are a long-term investment. Choosing high-quality components ensures:

• Better long-term ROI

• Fewer maintenance headaches

• More uptime for your facility

If your business is planning to stay in place for the next couple of decades, solar can seriously reduce operating costs—especially when paired with Ohio’s solar tax incentives and accelerated depreciation (MACRS).

FAQs

How long do solar panels really work beyond the warranty?
Panels can often function for 35+ years. They just lose efficiency slowly (about 0.5%–0.8% annually). Many still produce power well beyond their 25-year warranty.

Will I need to replace my inverter before the panels?
Yes. Inverters usually need replacement once during the system’s lifespan. We design systems with this in mind and offer support when that time comes.

What affects solar panel lifespan the most?
Climate, product quality, installation practices, and maintenance. We install with snow load ratings, hail resistance, and optimal tilt to protect long-term performance.

Can I replace just the panels in the future if needed?
Yes. Solar systems are modular. If one panel underperforms or gets damaged, it can be swapped without replacing the whole system.

Ready to explore commercial solar for your facility?

Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or stop by BC Solar’s office at 777 Busch Ct, Columbus, OH 43229.

We’ll give you real answers—and systems that last.