How to Explain Solar Panel Recycling to Your Clients: Essential Information

For renewable energy companies, there’s an important responsibility to educate clients about the entire lifecycle of solar panels, especially their end-of-life disposal.

Projections forecast that by 2050, there could be 80 million metric tonnes of solar panel waste globally. This guide will help you communicate effectively with clients about solar panel recycling, as it is crucial to proactively provide this information.  

The importance of Recycling Solar Panels 

Environmental Impact: Recycling prevents harmful substances like lead and cadmium from entering landfill, mitigating potential soil and water contamination. It also reduces the need for raw material mining, as certain materials can be reused in new panels. 

Economic Benefits: Recovering valuable materials such as silicone, aluminium and glass promotes a circular economy with their reuse.  

Solar Panel Lifecycle and Recycling Process 

Solar panels typically have a 25-30 year lifespan, with efficiency gradually decreasing over time. The recycling process can begin when they reach the end of their useful life.

Disassembly – Aluminium strips and the cable connector block are removed 

Shredding – The solar panels are shredded into large pieces and crushed into pieces between 6 and 10 mm 

Separation – Semiconductor films are removed in a slow rotating leach drum, taking 4-6 hours 

Chemical Treatment – Weak sulfuric acid and hydrogen peroxide is used to strip film from the glass 

Sorting – Glass, EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) and other materials are separated 

Cleaning – The glass is washed to remove any corrosive liquids 

Metal Recovery – Metal compounds are precipitated for reuse 

Material Extraction – Up to 90% of glass and 95% of semiconductor materials are recovered 

Communicating Benefits to Clients 

Environmental Responsibility: Emphasise the role of recycling in preventing harmful substances from entering the environment.  

Cost-effectiveness: Explain how recycling reduces the need for new raw materials, potentially lowering costs in the long run. However, recycling currently costs more than landfill disposal (£25 vs £1), unfortunately lacking a financial incentive. Nevertheless, it is an investment in sustainability.  

Regulatory Compliance: Inform your clients about legal requirements and standards depending on their region, stressing the importance of staying ahead of evolving regulations.  

Future-Proofing: Discuss how irresponsible disposal creates problems for future generation, but that ongoing research and developments will make recycling easier and cheaper. 

Addressing Common Concerns 

Recycling Availability: Solar Panel recycling infrastructure is growing. Companies such as Recycle Solar offer a recycling service all over the UK. 

Quality and Safety: Reassure about the safety and quality of recycled materials and how they meet the standards for new solar panels. 

Future Prospects: Explain that ongoing research is expected to improve efficiency and reduce costs thanks to the industry’s commitment to innovation. 

Wrapping Up 

Effectively communicating the process and importance of solar panel recycling ensures that your clients make informed decisions, benefitting both their interests and the environment. Commitment to sustainable practices throughout the lifecycle of solar panels is crucial as the renewable energy industry grows, even if that comes with a higher price tag.