Performance Guarantee
A performance guarantee in photovoltaics is an assurance from the manufacturer of a solar system that the solar panels will deliver a minimum performance value over a specified period. This value is expressed as a percentage of the nominal power output.
How it works:
Solar panels naturally degrade over time, a process referred to as degradation. The performance guarantee ensures that this degradation does not exceed certain limits. Typically, linear degradation is guaranteed over a specified period, after which the degradation may accelerate.
Importance for the consumer:
- Planning security: The performance guarantee provides consumers with planning security for long-term electricity generation and the economic viability of the system.
- Value stability: A high performance guarantee contributes to the value stability of the system, ensuring long-term performance.
- Legal protection: In the event of a performance guarantee not being fulfilled, the buyer can take legal action against the manufacturer.
Typical warranty conditions:
- Warranty period: Usually 25 to 30 years, in some cases even longer.
- Guaranteed performance: Usually a linear degradation of a maximum of 2% per year over a specified period.
- Exclusions: The guarantee generally does not cover damages caused by external influences (e.g., hail, lightning) or improper installation.
Additional aspects:
- Product warranty: In addition to the performance guarantee, there is often a product warranty that covers material and manufacturing defects.
- Insurance: Additional insurance may cover damages not covered by the guarantees.
Relevant keywords: photovoltaics, solar panels, degradation, nominal power, solar system