The global solar panel operation & maintenance (O&M) market is on a robust growth trajectory. Valued at US$ 5.7 Bn in 2023, the industry is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1% from 2024 to 2034, reaching US$ 16.4 Bn by the end of 2034. As countries increasingly embrace renewable energy, ensuring the optimal performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems through effective maintenance has become a critical priority.
Growing Solar Adoption Powers Market Momentum
Governments and organizations worldwide are prioritizing sustainable energy to curb carbon emissions and meet climate targets. As a result, solar power installations are rising rapidly. For instance, the U.S. achieved 177 GW of total installed solar capacity in 2023, with significant additions from both utility-scale and residential sectors. Similarly, China leads the world with 430 GW of solar capacity, accounting for a staggering 83% of global solar panel production.
This widespread adoption is not just about installation—keeping these systems running at peak performance is vital. Hence, the demand for solar O&M services is rising, creating vast opportunities for service providers and technology innovators alike.
Why Solar Panel Maintenance Matters
PV systems, while reliable, degrade over time. The median degradation rate of solar panels is approximately 0.5% per year, meaning the energy output decreases gradually. Without timely maintenance, issues like potential-induced degradation (PID)—caused by stray currents during high-voltage operations—can severely impact energy yields.
Regular O&M practices such as cleaning, inspection, and system diagnostics are crucial to detect and resolve performance bottlenecks. This not only extends the lifespan of panels but also maximizes return on investment for both residential and utility-scale systems.
The Rise of AI in Predictive Maintenance
One of the most transformative trends in the O&M market is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for predictive maintenance. AI-powered tools use machine learning, real-time monitoring, and data analytics to detect anomalies before they become critical. For example, thermal imaging cameras and drones can pinpoint hotspots that indicate malfunctioning modules.
Companies like Loggma Digital Energy Solutions are developing AI platforms that analyze plant data over several weeks to identify performance issues with high accuracy. This transition from reactive to proactive maintenance is driving increased system reliability and efficiency.
Government Initiatives Amplify Market Growth
Policy support is also playing a crucial role. In May 2024, Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation launched the ‘Solar BOLEH!’ initiative to encourage home solar adoption. This move, and similar ones around the globe, are catalyzing O&M market demand by increasing the number of installed systems requiring maintenance.
International organizations are equally involved, funding decarbonization across power-intensive sectors and ensuring the long-term success of clean energy transitions.
Asia Pacific: The Undisputed Market Leader
Regionally, Asia Pacific dominates the solar O&M market, with China as its key growth driver. The availability of large-scale solar manufacturing, combined with rising energy needs, positions the region for sustained dominance.
In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the growth is equally promising. Solar capacity is expected to reach 40 GW in 2024, rising to 180 GW by 2030, as per the Middle East Solar Industry Association (MESIA). These dynamics are fostering a strong O&M service ecosystem in the region.
Innovation and Competition in the O&M Landscape
Competition is intensifying among O&M providers and solar manufacturers. Companies are investing in automation and robotics to reduce manual effort and increase operational precision. A notable example is India-based Sleepwalkers, which launched Zero Dirt-BOLT, a waterless robotic device for cleaning solar panels, suitable for both rooftop and ground-mounted systems.
Other key players such as First Solar, SunPower Corporation, SMA Solar Technology AG, Trinasolar, and JinkoSolar are expanding their portfolios with advanced storage integration, AI-based tools, and regional expansion strategies.
In May 2024, SunPower added the Tesla Powerwall 3 to its lineup, enhancing its offering of smart, high-efficiency energy systems. Meanwhile, SMA Solar Technology announced U.S. manufacturing expansion plans, indicating strategic moves to support growing regional demand.
Future Outlook
The solar panel O&M market is set to play a pivotal role in the future of clean energy. From routine checks and asset management to AI-driven analytics and robotic cleaning, the focus is firmly on improving system efficiency, reducing downtime, and extending equipment life.
As solar adoption accelerates and technologies evolve, stakeholders must invest in scalable, intelligent maintenance solutions. Doing so will not only ensure uninterrupted energy supply but also significantly enhance the economics of solar power generation globally.
