Second-hand solar panels: smart deal or false economy?
With rising electricity prices, more and more households are turning to solar. But new installations are expensive, and a new trend is emerging: buying second-hand or refurbished solar panels. I looked into it and compared the promises with reality.
Price: the main argument
A new solar panel costs between €150 and €250 each. On the second-hand market, offers are sometimes half that, often coming from renovation sites. For a household looking to lower upfront costs, the temptation is strong. But beware: the lower purchase price can hide other costs.
The performance question
A solar panel loses efficiency over time, about 0.5% per year. After 10 years, it produces around 90% of its original energy. On paper, that may seem small, but across several panels, the difference shows up on the bill. A second-hand panel must be tested and guaranteed to avoid nasty surprises.
Reliability and guarantees
Solar panel manufacturers often provide a 20 to 25-year warranty. With second-hand panels, there may still be 5 or 10 years left, but not always. Without that safety net, the financial risk increases in case of failure. Refurbished panels, tested and resold with a new warranty, are more reassuring than buying from a private seller.
Comparison: New vs Second-hand/Refurbished Panels
| Feature | New Panels | Second-hand/Refurbished |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | €150-250 / panel | €75-150 / panel |
| Efficiency | 100% | 85-95% (depending on age) |
| Warranty | 20-25 years | 5-15 years remaining |
| Lifespan | 25-30 years | 10-20 years (remaining) |
| Risk | Very low | Medium (test required) |
| Availability | Always available | Limited stock |
| ROI (Return on Investment) | 8-12 years | 5-8 years (if reliable) |
Conclusion: Buying second-hand solar panels can lower the initial investment, but it requires caution. The best compromise is often refurbished panels, which combine a lower price with some level of security. In 2025, the real calculation is not just financial—it's also about durability and trust in the equipment. Explore other energy-saving solutions with our guide on [heat pumps in France](/en/blog/2025-09-21-heat-pumps-france) and our [autumn energy-saving tips](/en/blog/2025-09-26-autumn-home-energy).
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About the author:
Alexandre Dubois is passionate about practical eco-friendly living. Based in France, he shares tested habits that reduce costs and environmental impact without overcomplicating daily life. Contact: info@greendailyfix.com
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