Solar End of Life

What to do with old
or unwanted solar panels.

Solar panels last 25-30 years but technology improves every year. Whether you’re upgrading, moving, or decommissioning — Sol Country covers every option.

Your options

Three paths for
old solar panels.

Upgrade your system

Newer panels generate 20-30% more power in the same space. If your panels are 10+ years old, upgrading often makes more financial sense than keeping aging equipment. Sol Country calculates whether upgrading is worth it at your address.

Modern panels are 20-30% more efficient than panels from 2015
Calculate upgrade savings →
Recycle responsibly

Solar panels are 90%+ recyclable by weight. Specialized recyclers recover the glass, aluminum, silicon, and copper. Sol Country connects you with certified recyclers in your area.

90%+ recyclable by weight
Find a recycler →
Sell or donate

Functional used panels have real value in off-grid applications — RVs, cabins, agricultural pumps, and international projects. Sol Country connects sellers with buyers.

Used 250W panels: $20-60 each
List your panels →
Certified recyclers

Sol Country verified
solar recyclers.

Sol Country only lists recyclers that are SEIA National PV Recycling Program members or R2/RIOS certified. We do not earn a commission on recycling referrals — this is a free resource.
SOLARCYCLE
SEIA Certified

America's most advanced solar recycler. Recovers 96% of panel value. ISO certified. National collection network.

Coverage: National
Contact SOLARCYCLE
We Recycle Solar
National Collection

National solar panel collection and recycling service.

Coverage: National
Contact We Recycle Solar
Cleanlites
Multi-State

Multi-state collection and processing.

Coverage: Multi-State
Contact Cleanlites
Is an upgrade worth it?

Old panels vs new panels —
run the numbers.

Using your electricity rate of $0.133/kWh (national average)
Current annual output
5,208 kWh/yr
New panel output (same size)
6,720 kWh/yr
Additional production
+1,512 kWh/yr
Estimated annual savings
$201/yr
Estimated payback
49.7 years
See exact numbers for your address →
Colorado upgrade opportunity

Colorado’s new law allows up to
1,920W — are you maximizing yours?

HB26-1007 took effect January 1, 2027. If you installed a balcony solar kit before the law passed, you may be eligible to add more panels and increase your savings.

See upgrade options →
FAQ

Common questions about
solar end-of-life.

Most residential silicon PV panels are not classified as hazardous waste in most states. Washington and California have specific recycling requirements. The EPA is developing a federal framework expected by August 2027.

See if upgrading your panels
makes financial sense.

Sol Country calculates whether newer panels pay off at your address — using your utility rate and current panel efficiency data.

Calculate my upgrade →
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