Can Solar Panels Be Recycled?
The majority of solar panels are guaranteed to last 25 to 30 years. At Westcoast Solar Energy, we believe that the best solar panels are those that prioritize longevity and efficiency.
Solar ownership is meant to be a long-term investment that can produce clean energy for years to come. A high-quality solar system may last well over 30 years, but at some point, it will have to be decommissioned.
A question that a lot of people who are considering the environmental benefits of solar power for their homes in California is if solar panels are recyclable. For solar panels to be clean and sustainable, we have to look towards the safe disposal of decommissioned parts.
Solar panels are recyclable, although we need to have a more substantial infrastructure to collect, process, and repurpose the equipment.
More than 90% of the components in solar systems are recyclable. They are made of three primary materials – glass, silicon, and metal.
To recycle these parts for future use, they must be disassembled, and the raw materials have to be isolated. This is a complex process that requires a lot of time and effort.
Need a solar provider near you?
Finding a residential solar company in California provides the convenience of getting to your bay area location without the added stress or cost of waiting around. Instead, your solar panels or solar energy system can start to receive the necessary energy efficient upgrades right away.
Westcoast Solar Energy is one of the top commercial and residential solar companies on the West Coast (see our solar reviews) located in the heart of Wine Country in Sonoma County.
Westcoast Solar Energy also provides solar panel service and repair on solar systems installed by other solar panel companies. So call the best solar company near you at (707) 664-6450 today.
As of right now, due to the long lifespan of solar panels, there has not been a considerable need for solar panel recycling facilities. However, this gives time to make improvements to the recycling infrastructure and become more environmentally responsible.
There will be a huge demand for comprehensive solar panel recycling programs in the decades ahead with more solar systems reaching their end of life, primarily since solar panels are composed of a lot of useful materials that can be repurposed.
The United States has operational recycling facilities for solar panels that reach their end of life. There are options available now if your solar system needs to be replaced. In California, solar panels must be disposed of as hazardous waste. It is the only state with disposal guidelines, leading to creating ethical and appropriate recycling processes.
In future years we hope to see this expand.
How To Extend The Life Of Your Home’s Solar System
Solar panels are a great source of clean energy. They reduce carbon emissions and other forms of pollution. Even with the lack of readily available solar panel recycling facilities, solar power is still the best choice for constant and reliable clean energy.
To extend the life of your home’s solar system, be sure to sign up for regular service and repairs when necessary. At Westcoast Solar Energy, we are available to inspect and clean your home’s system as well as fix any installations.
For more information on going solar, please contact us today.
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