VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Photovoltaics

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeDepartment for Energy Security and Net ZeroTabled Answered 10 March 2025UIN 35838

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what estimate his Department has made of the obsolescence date of the current generation of photovoltaic panels.

Answered by Michael Shanks

The lifespan of a solar panel can vary depending on environmental factors and standards of maintenance. Typically, the panels have a guaranteed lifespan of 25 years, though many will continue to produce electricity reliably after that point. Decisions about the precise point at which it is no longer economical to maintain ageing panels are left to solar farm operators.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim