How are solar panels disposed of?

When they reach end of life, photovoltaic panels must be disposed of in compliance with the European directive on WEEE, i.e. waste from electrical and electronic equipment. We want sustainable and controlled photovoltaic disposal. For this reason, we take care of recovering up to 90% of solar panel raw materials through collaboration with specialized partners.

How much does photovoltaic panel disposal cost?

A typical answer is: it depends! In the case of a domestic photovoltaic system, disposal must be carried out by the owner at the reference WEEE Collection Center, traceable via the official website of the Coordination Center. The disposal of the photovoltaic system is the responsibility of the manufacturer, therefore it is free for the owner. In the case of a professional photovoltaic system (equal to or greater than 10kW), disposal is regulated by art.40 of Legislative Decree 49/2014 and art.1 of Legislative Decree 118/2020 and subsequent amendments). Depending on the type of system, whether incentivized (e.g. Feed-in Tariff), installation date, whether the WEEE contribution has been paid, etc. there may be different scenarios. It is necessary to evaluate case by case and for this reason we suggest filling out the dedicated form! We can help you.

How recyclable are photovoltaic panels?

PV modules with frame are composed on average as follows: 51% glass, 19% aluminum, 11% backsheet plastic, 16% silicon from cells and 3% precious metals, mainly silver, used in the form of paste for busbars (busbar) and contacts as electrically conductive material. Since the main parts of the module are those in glass, aluminum and plastic, which represent over 80% of the weight of the photovoltaic panel, it is already possible today to recycle most of the photovoltaic modules. Our research into high-tech partners has allowed us to recycle up to 90% of photovoltaic panels.

What is the photovoltaic panel recycling process?

There are various recycling methods ranging from chemical, mechanical or thermal treatments. Some of these processes are experimental while others use consolidated techniques but introduce impurities in the extracted raw material. We find ourselves in the middle ground. We don't want polluting materials, energy-intensive solutions and we want the result to be perfect. Challenging? Yes but we're on the right track and for example the purity degree of the extracted glass is extremely high, so it can be re-used in the market as raw material.

How long does a photovoltaic panel last?

On average, a photovoltaic system is guaranteed for a useful life of approximately 25 years, before reaching 80% efficiency. So not 0%! There is still residual life in a used panel. New generation panels, this operating threshold has been extended to 30 years.

How much does photovoltaic panel disposal pollute?

A photovoltaic panel can be disposed of without impacting the environment. Strict regulations govern this sector and for this reason we do not privilege chemical or energy-intensive solutions for recovering raw materials.

We handle your solar panel disposal

Solar panels aren't "forever," but we turn them into value for our planet's future.

Don't worry about a thing because we'll handle everything.

Why choose KeepTheSun for disposal

We'll manage your solar panel disposal and, through our trusted partners, provide you with the best possible solution.

Certified recycling facilities
We hand-pick our partners to ensure complete transparency in the recycling process!
The right process for you
Based on your system type, we'll recommend the best approach and determine any applicable compensation.

Ready to dispose of your solar system?

Complete the disposal form below and you'll receive a detailed quote from KeepTheSun within 5 business days.

Complete the form

Here's how it works

We cut through the red tape and get straight to business.

Fill out the questionnaire

One of our partners will contact you for additional details

You'll receive a quote tailored to your system type

A certified carrier will pick up the panels and provide all disposal documentation.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary widely depending on factors like the number of panels and their condition (whether modules are intact or damaged)

By the numbers

90%

Amount of recoverable material per panel during disposal

+20k

Tonnes of panels disposed of annually in Italy

25 anni

Average useful life of a solar panel up to 80% efficiency

Ready to dispose of your solar system?
We're here to help!

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