Everyone is more than aware by now, of the environmental benefits of solar generated power, but what about the production of the solar panels themselves?
Solar power is indeed a clean and renewable, source of energy, but the way in which the solar panels are manufactured, isn’t quite as green as the energy they produce. A lot of energy and materials are required in solar panel manufacturing, and some of these produce byproducts that are harmful to humans and the environment.
So, what can we – as home and business owners – do to help make our decision to switch to solar power, a more sustainable one?
Recycling of solar panels
Even if solar panels weren’t recycled, adopting solar power is still an environmentally friendly choice to make when compared to the use of fossil fuels, but recycling the panels help to bolster their eco-friendliness, and make the decision to go ahead with a solar installation, a wiser and greener one.
Although harmful byproducts are produced in solar panel manufacturing, companies are taking approaches to tackle this and reduce their impact on the environment. Where the real problem lies, is when old solar panels aren’t disposed of responsibly.
The average solar panel continues performing for up to 30 years, at which time they will need to be replaced. How long they last, however, depends on a number of different factors, ranging from weather conditions and damage, to irreparable maintenance issues. When your solar panels reach the end of their lifespan (and your solar installer can help you determine this), they absolutely should be recycled, and many individuals and solar providers alike are taking steps to ensure that this happens.
When should you replace your solar panels and recycle them?
Even if you haven’t reached the 25 or 30 year mark, if your panels aren’t performing as well as they once did, and you’re no longer able to power your whole home efficiently, it might be time to replace them. If and when that time arises, your installer should offer to recycle them for you.
How are solar panels recycled?
Ideally, as much as possible should be safely removed from solar panels before they are recycled. This is typically carried out by experts at your local recycling center, or a solar installation company.
Here is the process for recycling solar panels, which may vary according to your particular type of panels and which state you live in:
What about reusing solar panels?
In some instances, it’s possible for solar panels to be reused, either immediately, or following refurbishment. When they are reused, they can be useful for powering such things as electric bikes, small appliances, or EV charging stations.
To find out more about solar panel recycling, you can pay a visit to the website of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where you will also find information about regulations surrounding solar panel recycling, and how best to get them recycled.
To find out where you can take your old solar panels to be recycled once they have reached the end of their lifespan, you can ask your installer to recommend somewhere (or any local solar installer), or ask a national organization who recycle solar panels.
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