What does "solar panel degradation" refer to?

Solar panel degradation refers to the gradual loss of efficiency of a solar panel over time. Every solar panel has a specific degradation rate, typically stated by manufacturers, which indicates how much energy output can be expected to diminish each year. This decrease in efficiency may result from various factors, including exposure to environmental elements, temperature fluctuations, and the aging of materials used in the panels.

Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for assessing the long-term performance and energy production potential of a solar power system. For instance, a solar panel might begin with an efficiency of around 100% but may only output 80% of its original capacity after 20-25 years, depending on its degradation rate.

In contrast, the other options reflect concepts that do not align with the definition of degradation. The idea of an increase in energy production over time contradicts the very notion of degradation. Maintenance related to keeping solar panels clean is important for their performance but does not inherently refer to the loss of efficiency over time. Lastly, while color change may occur due to certain environmental factors, it does not directly relate to the efficiency or functionality of the solar panels.