Lifetime of a Complete Photovoltaic System

The standard type of crystalline silicon photovoltaic module will last for at least 20 years if installed properly. The battery will last 5-12 years if selected and looked after properly. The lifetime depends on the type of system and the operating temperature. The charge controller will last for about 10 years or more, which is the typical lifetime for an electronics component. So, if you consider a 20-year period, you should budget for some replacement of batteries and electronic controllers.

The satisfactory lifetime of a battery in a photovoltaic system depends on proper system design and care and maintenance during its lifetime. There is a trade-off between battery price and expected lifetime. But it is not always the most expensive battery that will last the longest. Naps are experts at selecting the the most appropriate type of battery.

Normally, our photovoltaic systems are designed so that the battery lifetime will be in the following ranges (depending on their operating temperature):

• In industrial systems: 6-12 years
• In rural electrification systems: 5-10 years
• In Nordic cottage systems: 5-10 years
• A cheap car battery will often last less than 2 years in a photovoltaic system. We can offer more reliable alternatives.

We have published a book on the battery technology. Please e-mail us if you interested in ordering the battery book.