DOE:
While the lifespan of a PV system is expected to be about 25–35 years, some modules and system components are already entering the waste stream. Modules can reach end-of-life (EOL) due to weather damage, installation errors, or manufacturing serial defects. Annual PV module EOL volumes may reach up to 12% of annual municipal electronic waste volumes in the United States by 2050. PV module materials are 99% non-hazardous and 95% of the materials is recyclable with current technologies. This sets a strong foundation for developing safe and lowimpact EOL material handling methods.
Currently the economics of EOL handling are unfavorable to recycling. The cost to waste generators to recycle PV modules is around $15-$45 per module. This is significantly higher than the landfill fee, which is $1-$5 per module. Therefore, it is likely that federal and state policy will have a large impact on how waste is processed.
Note: We have reduced the cost and are commercially scalable
Institute for Sustainable futures:
A typical crystalline silicon solar panel contains, according to the Institute for Sustainable Futures:
- 76% glass (panel surface)
- 10% polymer (encapsulant and back-sheet foil)
- 8% aluminum (frame)
- 5% silicon (solar cells)
- 1% copper (interconnectors)
- > 0.1% silver (contact lines)
- other metals — e.g. tin and lead
Separation and recycling of these components can significantly minimize waste, recover valuable materials, and reduce the environmental impact of their disposal. About 80% of materials used to make a solar panel can be reused, according to estimates.
Despite the high potential recycling rate, 90-95% of end-of-life solar panels in the US are still sent to landfills, according to NREL.
EPA:
Comments written internally:
With four strategically located facilities across the US and a commitment to sustainability, we offer unmatched capabilities to support your environmental goals.
We are dedicated to minimizing environmental impact and optimizing resource utilization through market-leading technologies. Our approach ensures full traceability and transparency, contributing to a sustainable future.
Key Advantages of Partnering with PedalPoint Recycling:
- We are the largest solar recycling company in the nation, with four strategically located facilities across the US to ensure comprehensive coverage and reliability.
- Our continuous, automated process minimizes manual intervention, eliminating the risk of capacity issues or shutdowns.
- We process up to 8,000 pounds per hour, leveraging direct smelter access through our partnership with KZ to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.
- $8-$12 panel (Average 40 pound panel)
- Evterra Recycling holds multiple third-party certifications, guaranteeing peace of mind and compliance with the highest industry standards.
- We are fully EPA and RCRA approved.
- Our closed-loop system diverts all waste from landfills, achieving 100% landfill avoidance for all solar equipment components.
- We partner with organization such as SEIA, CEBA, SERI and BAN to ensure we work together on the best solutions possible. While there are many innovations on their way we have a low cost solution available now.
At PedalPoint, we prioritize environmental stewardship and technological innovation, ensuring full traceability and transparency throughout our processes.