Panel degradation

Panel degradation is the gradual loss of a solar PV panel's ability to produce power compared with when it was new. It is usually discussed through module datasheets, performance warranties and long-term generation evidence, where the loss may be expressed as a yearly degradation rate or a warranted power level after a stated number of years. A low generation reading in an inverter app is not automatically panel degradation: shading, soiling, weather, temperature, inverter clipping, equipment faults and the original performance estimate can all affect output. It is not the same as module efficiency, kWp, an MCS performance estimate, a performance warranty, DNO acceptance, export eligibility, installation quality or proof that a warranty claim will succeed.