Where do solar panels go when they die? The answer is being worked out.

By Amanda Zuretti • July 8, 2024

Massachusetts’ goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2025 relies on the rapid electrification of the power grid and a significant increase in solar generation. By 2023, nearly one-quarter of the commonwealth’s electricity will come from solar.

MassDEP projects that 6,500 tons of solar panels will be retired each year starting in 2030 as solar panels installed 20 to 25 years ago are retired. By 2050, the maximum annual tonnage of retired solar panels will reach 40,000 tons.

So where do all those solar panels go when they stop working?

MassDEP explains that when solar panels are retired, their disposal must be managed in accordance with the Massachusetts Hazardous Waste Regulations. If the solar panels are deemed hazardous solely due to the presence of circuit boards containing metal, or if the panels or components meet the definition of scrap, the panels may be conditionally exempt from the Hazardous Waste Regulations if they are intended for recycling.

By 2030, Massachusetts landfills will no longer be able to hold all municipal waste and construction and demolition debris, and Massachusetts’ goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 envisions a waste-free future with robust waste separation and recycling infrastructure.

As of 2023, MassDEP has determined that the cost of recycling solar panels is higher than the value of the material to be reused and sold. Solar installers and recyclers reported that solar panels are either (i) disposed of with construction and demolition waste; (ii) returned to third-party manufacturer “take-back” recyclers; (iii) sent to scrap yards for metal recovery; or (iv) resold or given to hobbyists and DIYers for small-scale repair and installation of systems.

Recovering solar panels from the waste stream and creating a robust recycling infrastructure and market for recycled materials requires commitment from legislative, regulatory and industry bodies and is an ongoing process.

Classified: Renewable energy, solar energy

Tagged in: greenhouse gas emissions, massachusetts hazardous waste regulations, solar energy generation