Solar Module Recycling

Repowering projects or decommissioning operations typically involve several hundred to tens of thousands of modules at once. Solar Materials handles disposal including proof of disposal and supports logistics planning as needed.

Typical project sizes start at approximately 500 modules.

EPCs need predictable disposal pathways for ongoing projects. Solar Materials provides defined processes, dedicated points of contact, and reliable time windows for logistics, processing, and documentation.

Manufacturers and importers are subject to take-back and documentation obligations under ElektroG. Solar Materials supports operational implementation and handles legally compliant disposal of returned modules.

Anyone who manufactures or imports solar modules in Germany is obligated to take them back and must be registered with the Stiftung EAR.

Operators of solar parks, EPCs, and decommissioning companies must transfer end-of-life modules to a registered disposal partner.

Private volumes can be dropped off at local recycling centers. For commercial volumes, a registered waste management operation is recommended.

PV systems are first dismantled — modules, inverters, cables, and mounting structure are separated. The modules are classified as waste electrical and electronic equipment under ElektroG and must be handed over to a registered disposal partner. Solar Materials picks up modules from 500 units free of charge and issues a complete proof of disposal.

Conventional disposal companies charge between €180 and €210 per metric ton. Solar Materials handles disposal from 500 modules or 10 metric tons free of charge, because revenue from recovered materials refinances the recycling process. For smaller volumes, free drop-off at a local recycling center is recommended.

No. Solar modules are classified as waste electrical and electronic equipment in Category 4 under ElektroG — not as hazardous waste under the Circular Economy Act. They are, however, subject to the WEEE take-back obligation and may not be disposed of in general waste.

A standard solar module contains approximately 7 grams of silver. For large installations, these amounts add up significantly: 10,000 modules together contain around 70 kilograms of silver. The actual economic significance depends on raw material prices, module type, and recovery rate. Recovering this silver is a key component in refinancing the free recycling service at Solar Materials.

Private individuals can drop off old modules free of charge at public recycling centers. For commercial volumes, handover to a registered disposal partner is recommended. Solar Materials handles projects from 500 modules or 10 metric tons of module weight.

Yes. Under ElektroG, end-of-life solar modules must be handed over to a registered take-back system or certified waste management operation. Landfilling or disposal via commercial waste is not permitted and may result in regulatory fines.

Defective modules are treated the same as functional ones — as waste electrical and electronic equipment under ElektroG. They are processed using the thermomechanical method and materials are recovered. Module condition has no effect on the free-of-charge service, provided the volume threshold is met.

Liability lies with the operator or decommissioning contractor — not automatically with the original manufacturer or supplier. A complete proof of disposal from a registered waste management operation effectively eliminates this liability. Solar Materials issues this proof after every order.

The technical service life is 25 to 30 years. In practice, many modules are replaced earlier through repowering, when newer modules deliver significantly higher output with the same footprint. Damage from storms or hail can also trigger earlier disposal.

Manufacturers and importers must register with the Stiftung EAR, provide proof of a take-back guarantee, and report volumes annually. In warranty cases or product recalls, they bear the costs of take-back and disposal. Solar Materials can take on this take-back obligation operationally as a certified partner.

Solar Materials primarily handles modules. For complete systems — including inverters, cables, mounting structures, and foundations — we coordinate logistics partners as a turnkey service. Contact us directly for decommissioning projects.

“Disposal” is the legal term under ElektroG and describes the obligation to return and recover modules. “Recycling” refers to the technical process of material recovery. Solar Materials offers both as an integrated service.