Comment What's the lifespan of these panels? (Score 3, Informative) 304
Solar cells using amorphous silicon technology have a limited lifespan, so they generally carry a 12 month warranty. At least at http://www.jaycar.com.au/ where I buy stuff. Their output decays with age and within 5-10 years they can have the same PV properties as brick/mortar cells.
Polycrystalline cells don't have this problem, and I can buy top shelf "BP Solar" branded cells with a 20 year warranty! Similar $/Watt too. What does this mean for the MSK-clad building? Will its enviro-friendliness fade? And what effect does age have on its transparency/opacity?
