The energy required to make a solar panel from basic raw materials in the ground to finished panel is called the ‘embedded energy’ or ‘lifecycle energy’ cost of the panel. In most cases when the solar panel is installed on a roof and generating power it only takes around two years of the panels working life to recover this energy. In the case of a quality long-lasting panel a further 25 years or more of zero CO2 electricity will be produced.
Most solar companies use their own solar panels to power their panel manufacturing plants, so the consumption of fossil fuel derived energy to make panels is now very low and getting lower.
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