Can Solar Panels Withstand Salt Water Corrosion?

While many older modules suffered in the sea air, modern solar panels can withstand saltwater corrosion.

Our overview spotlights the dangers of salt corrosion and looks at how specialist design makes panels more corrosion-resistant. We’ll also provide vital tips to prevent saltwater corrosion from damaging your solar investment.

Key takeaways:

• Saltwater corrosion often occurs more aggressively in seaside locations.
• Salt and water can damage and impact the functioning of solar panels.
• Many modern panels can withstand the effects of salt corrosion.
• Regular checks and maintenance help prevent corrosive damage.

How Are Solar Panels Affected By Salt Water?

The combination of salt and moisture may accelerate the degradation of metal parts of a solar panel system. Salt reacts with water to form an acidic solution that causes faster general corrosion and rusting than water alone. In coastal towns, this type of corrosion is often detected on mounting racks, connectors, and panels. In extreme cases, it reaches the solar cells.

There are several harmful consequences of this:

• Poor performance: Saltwatercorrosion degrades components and compromises proper functioning and efficiency. If water and salt seep into a panel, they degrade the cells over time. This can cause the panels (or a single panel) to stop working. One failed panel often drags down the performance of the entire system.
• Salt buildup: Salt on the panels may not affect the electrical workings. However, heavy or crusty salt deposits hamper panel efficiency. Solar efficiency is all about converting sunlight to solar power. Salt buildup blocks sunlight from reaching the solar cells, resulting in less electricity production, even in optimal sunshine.
• Shorter lifespan: Good panels have a lifespan of 25+ years. Corrosion reduces this longevity and accelerates performance decline. If steps aren’t taken to promptly address corrosion, certain warranty terms may be voided.
• Safety threat: Severely corroded mounting hardware or connectors pose a safety risk.

How Do Solar Panels Withstand Salt Corrosion?

Modern solar panels are built to endure a range of environmental factors. These include extreme temperature variations, snow, and heavy hail. Reputable manufacturers also ensure their products are protected against salt corrosion.

These design features and materials help keep the problem at bay:

• Anodised aluminium frames: Many solar panels use anodised, corrosion-resistant aluminium for their frames. Stainless steel is also effectively used.
• Anti-corrosion coating: Special coatings are often applied to panels and racks to improve the system’s resistance.
• Reinforced glass: Quality panels have special or tempered glass that doesn’t crack. This helps prevent moisture and salt crystals from entering the panels.
• Vacuum-sealing: Solar cells are purposefully vacuum-sealed between the back sheet and the front glass panel. This prevents salt from penetrating and damaging the cells.
• Salt mist test: A typical solar energy system passes several tests to meet quality standards. Look for products with certified salt mist corrosion resistance or IEC 61701 certification.

Are All Solar Panels Equally Resistant To Saltwater Corrosion?

Not all solar panels are equally resistant to a high-salt environment. As discussed, panels specifically designed for coastal areas may use more robust materials and coatings to mitigate saltwater’s corrosive impact.

When installing a solar system near the sea, be aware of the potential risks of salt and moisture. Only invest in corrosion-resistant panels. and check that the warranty covers this risk.

It’s always helpful to speak to a solar professional before choosing a system. They can advise you about the best products, certifications, coatings, and setups to avoid rust and corrosion caused by local conditions.

When you choose the right solar installer, they will also confirm if your roof is suitable for solar panels or assess your land space for a ground-mounted solar installation. Be aware that ground mount corrosion is quite prevalent in the steel mounting hardware used for these installations.

5 Tips to Prevent Saltwater Corrosion on Your Solar System

When installing solar panels on a coastal property, choose panels and components that are certified resistant to sea air corrosion.

Be diligent about care and solar panel maintenance.

Here are 5 handy care tips to get you started:

1. Thoroughly check the entire installation at least twice a year. Once a quarter is even better! Inspect for salt and moisture on the mounting structure, panels, wiring, and around the connectors. If the installation includes microinverters or solar optimisers, carefully inspect them. Remove salt deposits and tackle signs of corrosion early (here, it’s best to consult a professional).
2. Keep your panels as clean as possible. Accumulated salt, dirt, grime, and bird droppings all reduce solar panel efficiency. Rain will rinse off some dirt but it’s best when elbow grease and specialised materials are used to clean solar panels and increase efficiency. Pay particular attention to removing salt deposits to reduce the threat of corrosion.
3. Inspect the panels for cracks. Cracks can be caused by large hailstones, a heavy falling branch, a collapsed satellite dish, or objects thrown from neighbouring properties. Thermal stress, caused by sharp day and night temperature fluctuations, can also lead to cracks. A badly cracked panel may need to be replaced to avoid compromising your system.
4. Ask your installer about protective products to coat metal and steel to improve overall corrosion resistance.
5. Ensure your solar inverter and storage battery (if you have one) are housed safely, out of salty sea air.

Get Your Seaside Solar Installation Quote Today

Whether you’re considering a solar investment on the coast or inland, Eco Happy has your back with expert, tailored advice. To get a no-fuss solar installation quote, simply contact us and provide a few quick details.

Our friendly, professional team is standing by to guide you to an affordable solar system, customised to your needs – wherever you are in the UK.

FAQs

How often should solar panels in coastal areas be inspected for corrosion?

It’s recommended that you inspect solar panels at least twice a year in seaside regions. Look for signs of corrosion, rust, wear, and cracks. Be sure to address any issues promptly.

Can water damage solar panels?

Water generally doesn’t damage solar panels. Modern solar panels are durable and resistant to all types of weather. However, water does cause damage when it gets inside the panel through cracks or worn or broken seals.

Can galvanic corrosion affect solar panels?

Yes, galvanic corrosion can affect solar panels. This type of corrosion occurs when two different metal types – such as aluminium and steel – are in electrical contact. Saltwater accelerates the corrosive degradation of the metals. To avoid this, reputable solar panel manufacturers use similar metals or apply insulating materials to prevent contact between different metals.

Final Thoughts

Salt corrosion is a threat to the longevity and efficiency of solar panels. Fortunately, many modern solar panels are designed to withstand the corrosive effects of salt and sea air.

To protect yourself against saltwater corrosion, search for panels that have undergone a salt mist test or have IEC 61701 certification. Also, inspect and clean your solar panel system regularly. Remove salt, other dirt, and excessive moisture near sensitive elements like connectors and inverters.

Contact Eco Happy’s solar specialists or browse our solar panel archives for more great solar advice and guidance.