What Happens to Solar Panels After 25 Years in Malaysia?

After 20–25 years, most solar panels in Malaysia will still be working — but at reduced efficiency, usually around 80–90% of their original output. This stage is known as their “end of life,” though it doesn’t mean they suddenly stop producing electricity. Like an ageing but capable athlete, they’ll keep performing — just at a steadier pace.

In a country where the Net Energy Metering (NEM) programme has driven strong solar adoption for homeowners, understanding what happens after 25 years can help you make confident, long-term decisions. Whether you’re considering solar for the first time or already own a system, here’s what to expect — and how to prepare for the future.

Lifespan & Efficiency of Solar Panels in Malaysia

High-quality solar panels in Malaysia are built to last 20–25 years, with most still operating at around 80–90% of their original output by the end of that period. With regular maintenance, many can keep generating power well past their warranty.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), top-tier panels can degrade as slowly as 0.5% per year — meaning they may still deliver over 85% of their initial output after two decades, even in Malaysia’s hot, humid climate.

At GetSolar, we add extra peace of mind for all our Rent-to-Own (RTO) customers — if your system underperforms during the contract, we’ll pay you back for the shortfall. This performance guarantee ensures you get the returns you were promised.

Why Solar Panel Efficiency Drops Over Time

Panel performance naturally declines over the years due to both environmental and material factors:‍

• Light-Induced Degradation (LID)
  ‍Small efficiency drop during the first months of sun exposure.‍
• Potential-Induced Degradation (PID)
  ‍Voltage leakage from heat and high humidity.‍
• Microcracks
  ‍Tiny fractures from thermal expansion and contraction.‍
• Weather & Corrosion
  ‍Prolonged exposure to heavy rain, UV rays, and heat can damage protective layers.

Even at the 25-year mark, most panels will still be producing electricity reliably. Minor fixes — such as inverter replacement or professional cleaning — can often restore output without needing a full system replacement.

Signs Your Solar Panels Are Ageing and How to Extend Their Life

Even with long performance warranties, solar panels will naturally show signs of ageing over time. Knowing what to look for — and what to do next — helps you plan repairs, replacements, or upgrades without unnecessary cost.

Common signs of ageing in Malaysia:

• Performance drop – If your electricity bills are rising despite similar usage, it may indicate reduced panel efficiency.
• Physical changes – Look out for cracks, discolouration, or delamination (when panel layers separate).
• Malaysia-specific risks – High humidity and heavy rain can cause corrosion or water ingress, especially around electrical connections.

Inverters typically last 10–15 years, so they may need replacing before your panels do. For older systems, catching these issues early can extend lifespan and delay costly replacements.

Options for Old or End-of-Life Solar Panels in Malaysia

1. Reuse for Secondary Applications

At 70–80% efficiency, panels can still power garden lighting, off-grid cabins, rural farms, or small equipment. Some NGOs and rural electrification projects may also accept functioning panels for community use.

2. Recycle Through DOE-Licensed Recyclers

Malaysia’s Department of Environment licenses recyclers to recover aluminium frames, tempered glass, and silicon wafers. Local innovators like Zenviro Solar are leading efforts to recover up to 85% of materials, including high-purity silicon and silver, in partnership with UKM.

With Malaysia aiming for 60% of its energy from solar by 2050, an estimated 164 million panels could reach end-of-life in the coming decades — making recycling infrastructure essential to avoid a future waste problem.

3. Repower with High-Efficiency Panels

Replace only the panels, keeping existing racking and wiring (if in good condition). This reduces cost, installation time, and can boost output with newer technology.

With GetSolar, all Rent-to-Own customers enjoy not just manufacturer warranties, but also a performance payback guarantee — so if your system underperforms during the contract, we cover the shortfall.

Planning Ahead for Long-Term Solar Performance

Whether you’re just starting out or halfway through your solar journey, planning ahead pays off. Schedule annual maintenance to keep efficiency high, and track your system’s output so you can act quickly if performance drops.

When it’s time to upgrade, our Rent-to-Own Solar lets you replace old panels with high-efficiency models from just RM267/month, RM0 upfront — with free maintenance for the full term, so your investment stays in peak shape without surprise costs.

Reaching the 20–25 year mark with your solar panels isn’t the end — it’s the start of their next chapter, whether that means keeping them running, repurposing them, or upgrading to the latest technology.

For new solar owners, it’s reassuring to know they’ll deliver strong performance for decades. For long-time owners, it’s empowering to have options that extend your system’s value.

With GetSolar’s Rent-to-Own plans, upgrading is simple, affordable, and worry-free — with maintenance and performance guarantees built in.