Solar ownership is a long-term investment. Many manufacturers guarantee their solar panels up to 25 or even 30 years. And it’s very likely your solar system will continue producing for years after that.
Yet, as with all technological assets, solar panels have a finite lifespan.
This raises important questions for prospective buyers and existing solar users: What becomes of solar panels once they cease operation? From understanding the recycling process to gauging their longevity and current recycling trends to envisioning the future of solar sustainability, we delve into the critical aspects of solar panel lifecycle and recycling. Discover the ins and outs of solar panel recycling, examine their enduring nature, and explore the expanding world of solar panel recycling.
We’re here to answer that and the following:
- How Are Solar Panels Recycled?
- What is the Lifespan of Solar Panels?
- How Prevalent is Solar Panel Recycling Today?
- What's on the Horizon for Solar Panel Recycling, and How Does QCells Partnership Help?
How Are Solar Panels Recycled?
Yes, solar panels can be recycled. How do we know? Because there are already companies recycling solar panels.
Solar panels primarily comprise three materials: glass, silicon, and metal. All three of these components are recyclable. However, unlike a glass bottle or a piece of scrap metal, solar panels need to be disassembled first.
PV Cycle, a European-based solar recycling association, has developed a process to address this. After the components are disassembled, 95% of the glass and 100% of the metal can be reused in new solar panels. Silicon wafers first undergo thermal processing to remove the silicon from the plastic covering. The evaporated plastic is reused as a heat source for this exact process.
The remaining silicon is then physically separated, and 80% of the panel can be reused. The remaining 20% is then etched away, and broken pieces are melted together. Of that remaining 20%, 85% can be reused.
All in all, 96% of the materials can be reused for new solar panels.
What is the Lifespan of Solar Panels?
When talking about the lifespan of solar panels, the biggest factor is degradation. Degradation is the gradual reduction in the amount of electricity your solar panels can produce. In other words, your solar panels slowly produce less electricity as they age.
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Manufacturers of quality solar panels have warranties that protect your panels from degrading too quickly. Most will guarantee 90% production after year 10 and 80% or more after year 20 or 25.
Once the manufacturer’s warranty runs out, they reach the end of what is known as their “useful life.” However, that doesn’t mean it’s the end of their actual life.
Just because they’re only producing 80% of the energy they did in year one doesn’t mean they’re not providing value to you. In fact, they could be providing more value to you than they did in year one. How so? Historically, electric rates have increased at a higher rate than solar panels degrade. So even though you’re producing less electricity, you’re saving more money because the cost of electricity has increased.
So, to answer the question of how long solar panels last, at least a couple of decades, but that’s really going to be up to you. You’ll need to decide at what point it’s worth looking into new technology to replace them.
How Prevalent is Solar Panel Recycling Today?
In June of 2018, Europe’s first recycling plant opened in Rousset, France. This first year, they set the goal to recycle 1,300 tons of solar panels, the same amount of panels that reached their life in France that year. By 2022, they aim to ramp up to 4,000 tons.
While there’s a process in place, there has not yet been a huge need for large-scale recycling of solar panels in the United States. And the industry is taking advantage of that extra time to improve the recycling infrastructure and the process itself.
According to SEIA and Wood Mackenzie, below are the annual solar installations in the United States. Twenty years ago, in 2000, very few solar installations were taking place. That means that there are not yet many solar panels that have reached the end of their life and need to be recycled.
However, if you’re ahead of the curve and are looking for ways to dispose of your panels responsibly, reach out to SEIA about their National PV Recycling Program or visit SolarRecycling.org to find a list of vendors in your area.
Latest Advancements in Solar Panel Recycling: A Case Study of Qcells' Initiative.
Solar panel recycling presents a sustainable solution to the end-of-life stage of solar panels, effectively addressing environmental concerns while bolstering the industry’s growth. From understanding the basic recycling process and recognizing the impressive lifespan of solar panels to witnessing the burgeoning efforts in recycling infrastructure, it's clear that solar energy promises a greener present and a more sustainable future.
Introducing initiatives like Qcells' partnership with SolarCycle represents a leap towards a circular economy in solar energy, showcasing how innovation can pave the way for a greener future. This, coupled with the solar industry's push for more efficient recycling methods, paints an optimistic picture of the lifecycle of solar panels.
If you're contemplating solar energy, it's reassuring to know that the sector is evolving with an eye on sustainability. This ensures that the sun's power remains not just an endless resource for electricity but also a beacon for environmental stewardship.
Rest assured, the future of solar panel recycling is on a promising path. Your investment in solar energy will not only benefit your energy independence but also contribute positively to our planet's health and future.
