Solar Panel Disposal Still Unclear

Solar panels consist of solar cells, which in turn require a very specific controlled industrial environment, and highly advanced tools to provide thin-film metrology measurements. Since the process of manufacturing solar panels is so complex, disposal of expired solar panels may also require certain specialized measures. For example, if the panels are broken and come in contact with soil, they will start emitting cancerogenic toxins. And taking into account the speed that the PV industry is acquiring now, there will be quite an accumulation of old solar panels in the future. Of course, nowadays, we don't have a problem with their disposal because the industry is fairly new, but later, within 25, 30 or 40 years, solar panel disposal may become a problem. Most of the European countries have established the PV CYCLE organization that will develop a full recycling and disposal plan this year. There's no such organization in the U.S. yet, because according to Waste Management, there has been no demand for it so far. Bottom line, if you're interested in installing solar panels, it's best to expect some expense at the end of their life. However, it's just a small amount compared to how much money you'll save on energy cost.

Credit: amosrenewableenergy.blogspot.com