Guide to Solar Panel Recycling in Australia for Homes & Installers

Australia is a country blessed with abundant sunlight and in recent years, Australian citizens have understood the importance of sunlight and how they can turn it to their benefit. In recent years, Australia has transformed itself into a green energy country with increased solar panel installation in Melbourne. They are reducing their reliance on harmful fuels and chemicals and stepping into the renewable energy world of solar panels.

Sunburn Solar is an accredited solar panel provider in Melbourne. We have a wide range of solar panel options, solar battery options, and inverters. Sunburn Solar has a certified team that initiates the solar panel installation in Melbourne. We have residential solar panels as well as commercial solar panels. We provide solar panel systems in Victoria and ensure that everyone can be a part of a greener world.

Nowadays, everyone knows the benefits of solar panel installation, but do you know that solar panels can be recycled as well! Shocked, right? Well, it is true. Don’t worry, this blog will assist you and solve all your confusion about the recycling of solar panels in Melbourne.

All you need to know about solar panel recycling in Australia.

Are solar panels recyclable?

Yes, solar panels are recyclable and hence prove to be the perfect option for you to invest your money in. As per the reports, 90% of the material in a standard solar panel is recyclable. Let’s break it down and find out which components are recyclable in solar panels.

• Aluminium from the frame
• Copper and silver from wiring and electrical contracts
• Glass from the panel face

As you know, these mentioned components and materials are of high value and in high demand. The biggest benefit for us is that all these mentioned materials are recyclable and reusable. Additionally, it is a notion that in the future, these materials will not be available. However, there are some components, such as silicon wafers and plastic, that may require advanced processing, but you will be shocked that these two components can also be recycled. In a nutshell, almost all the components in solar panels are recyclable.

Why solar panel recycling matters ?

The average lifespan of solar panels is 15 to 25 years in Australia. Hence, as we calculate, by 2035, there will be 100,000 tonnes of solar waste in Australia. This might have increased your heartbeat! But that is why solar panel recycling matters. And hence, most of the components and materials used in solar panels are recyclable.

Benefits of solar panel recycling in Melbourne.

• Solar panel recycling prevents hazardous materials from contaminating soil or groundwater.
• As you recycle solar panels, you get valuable resources such as silver, aluminum, and copper that can be used later.
• The increase in solar panel recycling and installation creates job opportunities for people in the green and renewable energy sector.

What should homeowners do with their old or broken solar panels?

After a while, when you are thinking about upgrading your solar panel or your solar panels are old, you can follow these steps for solar panel recycling.

• Check the panels: As we mentioned above, the average lifespan of solar panels in Australia is 20 to 25 years. That is why we suggest calling for a CEC-approved installer who checks your solar panels.
• Remove them properly: As the assessment is done and there is a requirement for removing the solar panels, you have to be careful while removing them. Ensure that during the removal process, there are no breakages or contamination. As fewer breakages ensure the utmost recovery and recycling of solar panels. The well-removed solar panels give us the opportunity to remove the glass that can be used and recycled in the new glass product manufacturing.
• Call for a responsible team for solar panel recycling: At this step, you have to opt for a professional team that assists you in solar panel recycling. They ensure there is no damage to the panels and ensure the maximum recovery of components.
• Get a recycling certificate: A recycling certificate is required to ensure that you have followed environmental rules and that your solar panels were disposed of responsibly.

Is solar panel recycling expensive?

Solar panel recycling cost is not as high as you might be expecting. The basic solar panel recycling cost is somewhere around $20-$40 per solar panel. The cost depends on factors such as

• Solar panel size and type
• And are you recycling in bulk or a single solar panel

The cost includes professional disassembling and processing and is likely to decrease in the coming year.

Why should you hire Sunburn Solar for solar panel installation in Melbourne?

Sunburn Solar is an accredited solar panel provider in Melbourne. Here are some reasons for you to choose us as your solar panel installer in Melbourne.

• We have various residential solar panels and commercial solar panel options for you to select from.
• We assist you with solar rebates and solar incentive programs.
• We have a certified team of solar panel installers in Melbourne.
• We offer constant support and maintenance for our solar panel services.
• We are a leading solar battery, solar panel and inverter installer in Melbourne.

Conclusion

Solar panel recycling is the best option you can consider for your old solar panels, as well as when you are upgrading your solar panels. Solar panel installation in Victoria, with a high demand, also witnesses a high demand for solar panel recycling. You can call Sunburn Solar, and we will assist you with everything from solar panel installation to solar panel recycling.