Collect and Recycle

Linkedin Facebook

Solar Panel Recycling For Businesses

  • We offer solar panel recycling services for businesses with large volumes of materials. Our collections cover the whole of the UK for
    commercial solar panel waste.

The Recycling Process For Different Types Of Solar Panels

We specialise in recycling solar panels for businesses across the UK. This includes unwanted and end of life solar panel recycling such as:

Silicon-Based Solar Panel Recycling

Silicon-based panel recycling begins with manual disassembly to remove the aluminium frames and junction boxes. The aluminium frame is 100% reusable. The panels will undergo thermal processing to separate glass from plastics. Silicon is the most common semiconductor material used in solar cells.

Thin-Film Solar Panel Recycling

Initially, the panels are shredded to break them down. This helps in separating the different layers and removes the lamination. To separate the solids and liquids, they are fed through a rotating screw.

The components are finally placed in chemicals to remove the film, and separated through vibration. The glass can then be reused, with the remaining materials dried, separated and processed.

solar panel recycling process

Recycle Solar Panels WITH US

Solar Panel Recycling UK

The majority of a solar panel’s components, including silicon-based solar cells, aluminium frames, and glass, can be collected and recycled. This process not only conserves raw materials but also reduces the environmental impact, making it a sustainable choice for disposing of decommissioned or unwanted solar panels.

  • recycle@collectandrecycle.com
  • 0845 366 9306
solar panel disposal
recycle solar panels

SOLAR PANEL DISPOSAL

We Specialise In Recycling Solar Panels For Businesses

At Collect & Recycle, we provide professional, responsible services for recycling solar panels for businesses. Whilst renewable energy and solar technology are improving sustainability, its key to ensure this extends to its disposal methods.

Our recycling service is designed to support businesses in safely managing their end-of-life panels. This can then align with environmental goals and producer compliance schemes.

Whether you are a solar panel installer, manufacturer or construction business, we can help dispose of your solar energy waste safely. We can also collect a range of solar equipment including packaging, rack systems, inverters, cables, and transformers.

Preparing Solar Panels For Collection

Unity

Your PV panels must be unified when stacked on pallets. Please ensure the waste is secured and inline for a safe, efficient collection.

Security

When securing your panels, use a strong strapping that is tied over the panels. This will hold them in place and eliminate the risk of panels falling during loading and transportation.

Height

You should not stack more than 25-30 panels per pallet. This again ensures that your panels maintain their form for loading and removing the waste.

A sustainable approach to recycling solar panels

Apply the WEEE directive

Following waste prevention as the most preferred method in the waste management hierarchy, we apply the WEEE directive to discarded electrical waste. If your panels can be given a new lease of life, our team will focus on saving the panel and its materials for reuse before recycling.

This is the most environmentally-friendly solution as we can save raw materials in the production of new panels, whilst treating your waste sustainably. This is what sets us apart from other businesses, and allows us to create a circular approach to managing waste, minimising your carbon footprint.

Solar Inverter Recycling

Solar inverters play a vital role in converting the energy generated by solar panels into usable electricity. When inverters reach end-of-life, they often contain valuable components such as aluminium, copper, and electronic circuitry that can be safely recovered. Our specialist solar inverter recycling service ensures these units are dismantled responsibly, diverting waste from landfill and maximising material recovery.

Tranformer Recycling

Transformers used in larger-scale solar installations also require proper end-of-life management. Containing metals, oils, and other components, these units must be processed with care to avoid environmental harm. We provide a compliant transformer recycling solution for businesses across the UK, ensuring safe handling, removal, and recycling of materials wherever possible. 

SOLAR MODULE RECYCLING

The Benefits Of Recycling Solar Panels

One of the primary advantages is the conservation of raw materials. Solar PV panels contain valuable materials like silicon and aluminium, which can be reclaimed and reused. This process significantly reduces the need for extracting raw materials, thereby conserving natural resources and reducing the environmental footprint associated with mining and processing.

Another crucial benefit is the reinforcement of the sustainability of solar power as a renewable energy source. By recycling old or damaged panels, we extend the life cycle of the materials used, thereby enhancing the overall eco-friendliness of solar power.

Efficient waste management is also a key advantage. As the adoption of solar power grows, so does the need to manage end-of-life panels. Recycling facilities provide an environmentally responsible solution for handling this waste, preventing it from ending up in landfills and causing potential environmental harm. This aspect of recycling is especially crucial given the increasing focus on sustainable waste management practices across industries.

Book A Collection For Your Solar Panel Recycling

Book Collection

Ready to responsibly recycle your solar panels? Contact Collect & Recycle today to book a collection. Our team is equipped to handle various types of solar panels, ensuring that your solar panel recycling needs are met with professionalism and efficiency.

Simply fill out the form on this page or message us using our online chat to receive a quote. We will get back to you shortly to arrange an efficient collection of your recyclable materials. We also specialise in recycling various other waste types, including cardboard, paper and hazardous materials.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions For The Disposal Of Solar Panels

What Is The Process Of Recycling Solar Panels?

The recycling process for solar panels involves several steps. Firstly, the aluminium frames are removed. The panels undergo thermal processing to separate the glass and silicon cells. The materials are then processed further to extract valuable raw materials like silicon, which can be reused in new solar cells.

How Much Does It Cost To Recycle Solar Panels?

The cost to recycle solar panels varies based on factors like the volume, type of solar panels, and logistics. We offer competitive pricing and work closely with businesses to provide cost-effective recycling solutions. Contact us for a tailored quote.

What Happens To Solar Panels After 25 Years?

After 25 years, the efficiency of solar panels typically decreases, although many panels remain functional beyond 30 years. Once they reach the end of their useful life, it’s crucial to recycle them to recover valuable materials and prevent environmental harm.

What Is The Scrap Value Of Solar Panels?

The scrap value of solar panels depends on the materials recovered, such as aluminium and silicon. While the value varies, the primary benefit of recycling is environmental conservation.