Questions to ask yourself before installing photovoltaic panels

Installing photovoltaic panels is appealing for many reasons. Due to the bonuses currently offered by the Luxembourg state and certain municipalities, investment required by the owner is reduced and can be paid back over time.
Producing electricity for self-consumption enables you to reduce your electricity bills and makes you less dependent on changes in market prices. As an owner of photovoltaic panels, you also have the possibility of reselling electricity produced on the network.

Further reading on this topic (only in french): Self-consumption: why choose photovoltaics with a single meter?

On the Enovos website, you’ll find a wealth of information on the options available to you when installing a photovoltaic system in your home.

In this article, however, we wanted to focus on some important questions, which, although often overlooked, deserve our attention.

What is the lifespan of a photovoltaic system?

This is a key question that you have undoubtedly asked yourself if you are considering investing in a photovoltaic system. You can easily calculate the time needed to earn back your investment based on the cost of installation, the bonuses you have access to and the energy savings this allows you to achieve. However, to assess the return on your investment, in other words, the financial gains you can expect to acheive, you need to be able to estimate the lifespan of the system.

Panel manufacturers’ warranties vary from 10–25 years, depending on the technology used and quality of the materials chosen. In reality, the lifespan of these systems is far longer, around 30 years, and even reaching 40 years if maintenance is carried out correctly.

It is important to note that while the panels offer good longevity, other elements will need to be replaced more regularly, such as the inverter, which is recommended to be changed every 8–12 years.

Should you insure your photovoltaic panels?

First of all, you should know that the manufacturers of the components that make up your photovoltaic system offer guarantees for a specific period. Installers may also offer guarantees relating to the working order of the system.

While it’s not compulsory to insure your photovoltaic panels in Luxembourg, this process is not without its benefits. In particular, this allows you to cover yourself against risks that are not linked to the guarantee. For example, severe weather, such as snowfall or hail, could cause damage to your system. It is therefore recommended to take out cover that will avoid having to bear significant repair or replacement costs. This protection is often included as part of your home insurance.

In addition, some insurers offer packages that aim to guarantee the profitability of the system, offering their clients the possibility of obtaining compensation if deviations are noted from the expected energy yield.

How can I optimise the performance of my photovoltaic panels?

The performance of your photovoltaic panels will depend on many elements.

Before installing them, it is important to consider their orientation and tilt angle. Regardless of the quality, power and surface area of the system, these factors are decisive for optimising panel production. It is also important to ensure that nothing casts a shadow that would prevent certain cells from producing electricity.

Over time, performance can be affected by the accumulation of particles or dust in the system. It is therefore necessary to ensure that it is cleaned regularly. It is also important to maintain ancillary equipment, such as the inverter, to ensure optimal performance.

How to maintain your photovoltaic panels?

Photovoltaic panels don’t require much maintenance. In Luxembourg, rainy periods are regular enough that dust does not have time to settle. The panels are actually covered with a thin self-cleaning layer. When it rains, for example, this allows the formation of beads of water, which slide across the surface carrying the particles with them.

However, some dirt can be more stubborn, such as bird droppings, for example, or certain fine particles or dust. Depending on your location, the panels will become dirty more or less quickly over time. For this reason, it is recommended to clean the system approximately every two years. This cleaning is carried out using demineralised water and a soft sponge. It is essential to avoid using abrasive substances and materials that could damage the surface of the panels.

Beyond the panels, it is also important to maintain the inverter. This element of the system is more delicate, and its maintenance must be handled by a professional.

Can I take my panels with me if I move home?

Have you recently installed photovoltaic panels in your home and find yourself moving unexpectedly? Please note that it is not possible to move your system to another roof. If you are a homeowner, the best solution is to sell your property with the system included – this will notably help increase its value.