PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate the reliability and signature reliability of solar panel k-out-of-n-multiplex system with the help of universal generating function.Design/methodology/approachEnergy scarcity and global warming issues have become important concerns for humanity in recent decades. To solve these problems, various nations work for renewable energy sources (RESs), including sun, breeze, geothermal, wave, radioactive and biofuels. Solar energy is absorbed by solar panels, referred to as photovoltaic panels, which then transform it into electricity that can be used to power buildings or residences. Remote places can be supplied with electricity using these panels. Solar energy is often generated using a solar panel that is connected to an inverter for power supply. As a result, a converter reliability evaluation is frequently required. This paper presents a study on the reliability analysis of k-out-of-n systems with heterogeneous components. In this research, the universal generating function methodology is used to identify the reliability function and signature reliability of the solar array components. This method is commonly used to assess the tail signature and Barlow-Proschan index with independent and identically distributed components.FindingsThe Barlow-Proschan index, tail signature, signature, expected lifetime, expected cost and minimal signature of independent identically distributed are all computed.Originality/valueThis is the first study of solar panel k-out-of-n-multiplex systems to examine the signature reliability with the help of universal generating function techniques with various measures.