Maximising time in the sun: how to maintain and repair solar panels to make them last

All solar panels degrade over time, but expert installation and regular maintenance can prevent an early sunset on their lifespan

• Change by degrees offers life hacks and sustainable living tips each Saturday to help reduce your household’s carbon footprint

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Across Australian rooftops, a quiet renewable energy revolution has been gathering pace. Australia’s Energy Market Operator described the last three months of last year as a “landmark moment”, with renewables’ energy share rising above 50% for the first time.

Australia has for many years had the highest penetration of household solar panels in the world, with about 4.3m homes – roughly one in three – having installed rooftop solar, with a capacity exceeding 28GW.