Solar Panel Lifespan of Solar Photovoltaics

When you hear about solar energy and solar panels, you can only think of a positive environmental impact, reducing gas emissions, and saving money, right? And it is so, the growth of solar panel systems marks a significant shift toward clean, renewable power. However, there is one concern that one may not even consider at the moment. 

The growth comes with a long-term environmental challenge: 

• How long do solar panels last? 
• And what happens to PV solar panels when they end their life cycle?

Let’s take a closer look at solar panel durability, the intricacies of PV panel recycling in the United States, and what can be done to provide a sustainable system for solar panel end-of-life management.

Solar Panels Life Expectancy

The lowering cost of solar has made renewable energy more accessible than ever, resulting in an exponential rise in solar usage. With approximately 1.6 TWdc (or 1600 GWdc) PV modules installed globally by the end of 2023 (including over 200 GWdc in the U.S., through Q1 2024), end-of-life management is crucial for all PV technologies to ensure sustainable clean energy solutions.

Source: Solar Incentives

 

The common solar panels’ life expectancy is 25 to 30 years, after which their efficiency drops below acceptable levels. Panels can also stop operating due to storm damage, manufacturing defects, or technological upgrades. So, what is the future of these panels?

By 2030, the U.S. is expected to generate over one million tons of solar panel waste. By 2050, that number could reach more than 10 million tons annually. These figures highlight the urgent need for a nationwide solution to solar panel waste management.

Components of Solar PV Panels

Now, without any further ado, let’s look at the recycling opportunities depending on the solar components:

• Glass (~75% of the panel’s weight): Easily recyclable
• Aluminum Frame: Commonly repurposed.
• Silicon Cells: Recoverable but require chemical treatment
• Copper Wiring: Valuable and recyclable
• Encapsulants and Backsheets (often plastic-based): Can be energy-intensive to remove

Source: VSSES

 

While many of these materials are technically recyclable, disassembling them efficiently and safely requires specialized processes, which are not yet widely adopted in the U.S.

The Current State of Solar Panel Recycling in the U.S.

The process of solar panel recycling in the U.S. leaves much to be desired. End-of-life disposal of solar products is governed by the Federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and state policies that govern waste disposal or other disposition. Some of the PV components can be classified as hazardous waste by the RCPA and are expected to be utilised accordingly. 

However, some U.S. states allow those hazardous panels to be treated as universal waste, like batteries, LED bulbs, and aerosol cans. Others might have state-level regulations for proper use. 

Solar Panel Recycling Programs

Washington State policy – Washington is the first U.S. state to develop an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy aimed primarily at photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. Here are the main details:

1. Stewardship plan requirement: An established stewardship plan is a must for every solar panel manufacturer that wants to sell solar panels in Washington. This plan should also outline how they plan to manage the end-of-life recycling of their products. 
2. Program goals: The policy aims to recycle solar panels in an environmentally responsible manner. It includes reclaiming valuable elements such as glass, aluminum, and semiconductor materials.
3. Challenges and delays: Due to Washington’s severe standards, several manufacturers have decided not to sell solar panels there. Legislative suggestions have been made to delay implementation to provide more time for compliance and address industry concerns.

SEIA National PV Recycling Program is a network of recycling and refurbishment companies that offer end-of-life management services to solar and storage installers, project and system owners, developers, distributors, and other stakeholders.

First Solar Take-Back Program  – First Solar is the only major manufacturer with a global, in-house recycling program focused on CdTe thin-film modules. The key points of the process:

• High-value recycling: First Solar’s technique recovers over 90% of the materials found in solar panels, including glass, aluminum, and semiconductor materials. This high-value recycling assures that these components can be utilized in future panels and products.
• Global reach: First Solar has recycling plants in the United States, Germany, Malaysia, Vietnam, and India. International presence guarantees the worldwide availability of recycling services.
• Cost-effective and scalable: The program is designed for high-volume recycling and provides flexible, cost-effective alternatives for PV module owners. 

In contrast to the European Union’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, which mandates PV panel recycling, the U.S. has yet to enact comprehensive federal policies. As a result, we have a system with inconsistent standards and minimal accountability.

Challenges in End-of-Life Management

Despite increasing awareness, many constraints limit the widespread implementation of solar panel recycling in the United States.

High costs

Recycling a solar panel in the United States might cost $20 to $30 per unit, whereas sending it to a landfill costs only $1 to $2. Without subsidies or rules, many owners choose the cheapest disposal option.

Limited Infrastructure

There are currently only a few certified solar panel recyclers in the United States. Many e-waste facilities lack the specialized materials and chemical treatments for PV modules.

Toxic materials

Some older panels include toxic compounds such as lead and cadmium, which complicate disposal and increase environmental dangers if discarded improperly.

Information and Tracking Gaps

Another challenge is that there’s no official registry that records solar panel lifespans, ownership changes, or disposal methods. With this data gap, it’s difficult to develop effective, unified, large-scale recycling programs. 

Final Thoughts

As the average lifespan of solar panels is 25-30 years, end-of-life management of PV panels in the United States is a growing issue that needs quick attention. While solar energy offers multiple benefits, hazardous waste and resource inefficiencies can outweigh the benefits.

Creating a circular solar economy will require collaboration among politicians, manufacturers, recyclers, and consumers. Numerous challenges require discussion and appropriate solutions. With the right infrastructure, innovation, and legislation, the United States can ensure that its clean energy future is not just bright but also sustainable.