Are there local facilities for recycling solar panels in the UK?

Yes, there are local facilities and services for recycling solar panels throughout the UK, though the infrastructure is still expanding to meet growing demand as solar adoption increases.

Current UK Solar Panel Recycling Facilities

• In 2023, the UK opened its first dedicated solar panel recycling facility as part of the Government's Solar Task Force initiative, marking a significant step toward managing solar waste domestically.
• Several companies operate UK-wide solar panel recycling services, providing collection, decommissioning, and recycling services for homeowners, businesses, and solar farms.
• For example, Recycle Solar, based in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, provides a complete decommissioning and recycling service, including qualified electrician support, equipment removal, and recycling. They cover all scales of solar PV systems—from domestic installations to large commercial solar farms—and operate across the entire UK.
• MG Waste Management Ltd also offers UK-wide solar panel recycling services designed to handle photovoltaic (PV) panels safely and efficiently.
• Despite these facilities, the UK is still developing infrastructure compared to the projections of increasing solar panel waste volumes expected by 2025, when over one million tonnes of PV modules will require recycling across Europe including the UK.

Practical Advice for UK Homeowners and Small Business Owners

• When your solar panels reach the end of their lifespan (usually about 25-30 years), contact a UK-based solar panel recycling service to arrange safe removal and recycling.
• Use companies that provide comprehensive services, including decommissioning, removal, and recycling to avoid multiple contractors and ensure environmental compliance.
• Check whether local councils or building contractors you work with can recommend certified solar panel recyclers.
• Do not dispose of solar panels with regular waste or at general recycling centers, as improper disposal risks environmental harm and may be illegal.
• Recycling solar panels recovers valuable materials such as silicon, glass, and some metals, reducing the need for new raw materials.

Key Pros and Cons of Solar Panel Recycling in the UK

Pros

• Reduces landfill and toxic waste from hazardous materials within solar panels.
• Recovers valuable materials for reuse, supporting circular economy principles.
• Ensures compliance with UK regulations on electronic and electrical waste.
• Supports the UK’s renewable energy growth by managing end-of-life PV panels sustainably.

Cons

• Limited number of dedicated solar recycling facilities means service availability can vary by region.
• Recycling costs may be higher than standard waste disposal, though this is changing with market growth.
• Complex recycling processes require specialized facilities, so DIY or informal disposal is not recommended.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all local recycling centers accept solar panels—most do not because of their complex components.
• Attempting to dismantle or recycle panels yourself without professional help, which can be hazardous due to electrical components and materials.
• Ignoring the need for certified recycling, potentially resulting in non-compliance with UK waste regulations and environmental harm.

Conclusion

The UK has made important strides in establishing local solar panel recycling services, with several companies providing nationwide collection and recycling. However, as the number of solar panels installed grows, recycling infrastructure is still developing to meet future needs. UK homeowners and small business owners are encouraged to use certified recycling services to responsibly dispose of solar PV panels and support environmental sustainability.