How long solar cells will survive with optimum performance How long solar cells will survive with optimum performance? The lifespan of a solar cell depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the operating conditions. Generally, the industry standard warranty for solar panels is around 25 years, which suggests that they can last much longer than that. Read Also: Things to Consider in Electrical Project Management However, in practice, solar cells can degrade over time due to various factors, including exposure to UV light, extreme temperatures, and physical wear and tear. The rate of degradation can vary depending on the specific conditions, and it is difficult to predict exactly how long a solar cell will last. With proper installation, maintenance, and care, a solar cell can operate effectively for many years, potentially even several decades. In fact, some older solar panels that were installed in the 1980s are still