When solar panels reach the end of their life, they can’t simply be tossed in the trash. Many landfills won’t accept solar panels due to the hazardous materials they contain. The good news? Solar panels are recyclable, and this guide will walk you through how to dispose of them safely, responsibly, and conveniently.
Where to recycle or dispose of old solar panels
There are several ways to ensure your solar panels are removed and recycled properly. The best method depends on the condition of your panels, your location, and how hands-on you want to be.
Manufacturers take-back programs or removal services
Some solar panel manufacturers offer take-back or removal programs that make disposal simple and eco-friendly. Companies like First Solar, SunPower, REC Group, and Sungrow may accept panels that were originally purchased through them or offer recommendations for proper recycling. Reach out to your panel manufacturer to see if they participate in a recycling program.
National and regional recycling services
Organizations like Call2Recycle, Earth911, and RecyclingCenters.org provide resources and directories for finding solar panel recycling options near you. These services often partner with certified e-waste recyclers, ensuring your panels are handled in compliance with local regulations.
Local e-waste management & certified recyclers
Your municipality or local waste authority may offer e-waste drop-off events or maintain partnerships with certified electronics recyclers. Contact them directly or check their website to see if solar panel recycling is available. Just make sure the recycling facility is certified to handle solar panels, as they require special processing.
Donating or selling usable panels
If your solar panels still work, even partially, consider donating them to nonprofits, schools, or community projects. You can also sell them to individuals or companies who repurpose old panels for off-grid or small-scale use. This not only extends the life of your equipment, but it keeps it out of the waste stream entirely.
Junk removal services
Need the panels gone, but don’t want to deal with hauling or researching recycling centers? Hire a professional junk removal service to take care of it. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, we handle everything for you, from pickup to cleanup, and ensure solar panels are properly sorted and delivered to the right recycling facility whenever possible.
We know solar panels are classified as electronic waste, and we’re equipped to dispose of them safely and efficiently—all you have to do is point.
Why it’s important to recycle solar panels
Most solar panels contain materials that should never end up in landfills, such as cadmium, lead, and silicon. These components can leach into the soil and water, creating health and environmental hazards. Improper disposal can result in fines in some areas, especially where regulations around hazardous waste are strict.
At the same time, solar panels are made with valuable materials like aluminum, copper, and glass that can be reclaimed and reused in manufacturing. Recycling helps reduce the demand for raw materials and keeps usable components in circulation, reducing the environmental footprint of solar energy as a whole.
Want to learn more about our commitment to eco-friendly appliance removal? Visit our appliance recycling blog.
