The Evolution of Solar Warranties: What Building Owners Need to Know in 2025

Introduction

Warranties are a critical, yet often overlooked, part of solar procurement. In 2025, as more building owners invest in solar and as the market matures, solar warranties are becoming both more standardized and more sophisticated. This article explains what’s changing and what commercial buyers need to watch for when selecting equipment and contractors.

Types of Solar Warranties

Solar energy systems typically include several warranty layers, each covering different risks:

• Product Warranty (aka Manufacturer’s Warranty): Covers defects in materials or workmanship—typically 10–15 years for panels, 5–10 years for inverters.

• Performance Warranty: Guarantees a certain level of energy output—typically 25–30 years for panels (e.g., no more than 0.5% degradation per year).

• Workmanship Warranty: Provided by the installer, typically 2–10 years, covering design or installation flaws.

• Roof Penetration Warranty: Especially relevant for rooftop systems; covers roof damage during installation.

What’s Changing in 2025

• Extended Terms: Some top-tier panel manufacturers now offer 25-year product warranties, matching the duration of performance warranties.

• Bundled Coverage: EPCs (Engineering, Procurement & Construction firms) are increasingly offering “wrap” warranties that bundle performance and workmanship into one policy.

• Insurance-Backed Warranties: Third-party insurers are backing some warranties, adding reliability if a manufacturer exits the market.

• Transferability: More warranties are explicitly transferable to new property owners—important for long-term commercial value.

• Digital Monitoring Integration: Performance warranties are increasingly tied to remote monitoring platforms that verify output.

Key Terms to Watch

When evaluating warranties, commercial buyers should look for clarity in:

• Degradation Rates: Ensure output guarantees are realistic and trackable.

• Exclusions: Watch for vague clauses on weather, shading, or third-party interference.

• Claim Process: Understand whether warranty claims are handled by the installer or require direct engagement with the manufacturer.

• Bankability: Choose brands with strong financials—warranty is only as good as the company behind it.

Risks of Misunderstanding Warranty Coverage

Ignoring or misinterpreting warranty terms can lead to:

• Unexpected Maintenance Costs

• Lower-than-expected system output

• Delays in repairs or replacements

• Inability to enforce claims if installer or manufacturer exits the market

Careful upfront review protects the long-term value of your investment.

Surge’s Guidance for Commercial Buyers

At Surge, we help our clients:

• Compare warranties from different manufacturers and integrators

• Assess risk and reliability based on financial strength and market history

• Prioritize warranties that align with asset resale and long-term ownership goals

• Ensure performance guarantees are measurable and monitored

We believe a solar system is only as reliable as its warranties. That’s why we help you evaluate this critical part of your clean energy strategy.

TL;DR Summary

• Solar warranties cover product defects, energy output, workmanship, and roof penetrations—each with different durations and providers.

• In 2025, warranties are evolving: longer terms, bundled packages, insurance backing, and better digital integration.

• Watch out for vague exclusions and ensure warranties are transferable and enforceable.

• Surge helps buyers navigate these terms and select equipment and partners with strong, clear, and reliable warranty protection.