What is galvanic corrosion in solar PV?

The life of a solar PV system may be seriously effected by galvanic corrosion. The type of metal and the atmospheric conditions such as moisture and chlorides can cause serious structural failures in racking and mounting components. Galvanic Corrosion and Protection in Solar PV Installations | Greentech Renewables Skip to main content menu

Will a galvanised roof rust if you add solar panels?

Galvanised roofs with aluminium-framed solar panels attached will rust. Read on, and I’ll explain why this happens, what to do if you already have a galvanised roof, and how to buy a shiny metal roof that won’t rust when you add solar panels.

Can solar PV racking corrosion occur?

The metals in solar PV racking and mounting systems can be faced with corrosion if wrong metals are used together. The life of a solar PV system is 25 years, therefore system installers must target a similar life span for the racking materials. How does galvanic corrosion occur?

How to prevent corrosion in PV systems?

The installer has to be careful in choosing the right material. We usually suggest using anodized components to prevent corrosion for the PV systems that are near ocean (salt conditions). Below is a list of best practices for corrosion prevention: Use one material to fabricate electrically isolated systems or components where practical.

Do solar panels corrode?

Rainwater is the electrolyte, and runoff from the aluminium solar panel framing forms aggressive corrosion where it drips onto the galvanised roofing material. You don’t have to be a roofer to recognise that the Australian landscape isn’t well suited to slate or timber shingles. As a solar installer, I appreciate that.

Can a solar array drip holes in a galvanised roof?

While all roofing will eventually rust away, given the right conditions, a solar array can drip holes in a new or old galvanised roof in perhaps ten years. Sadly, not many realise until it’s too late and the rust stains have already appeared.