Solar Panel Recycling in South Carolina
Solar Panel Recycling in South Carolina
Solar panels and their batteries empower various trades all over the United States. Currently, solar power is the best natural energy source. For example, it boosts local markets, lessens carbon production, and does not require much maintenance.
The solar industry is constantly expanding. Thus, these solar systems are becoming increasingly significant. Leading to the call for solar panel recycling in South Carolina.
Continuously, silicon solar systems contain glass, plastic, and aluminum. Retrieving these three elements happens frequently. Increasing the demand of solar panel recycling in South Carolina.
Furthermore, the average solar panel can efficiently supply power for virtually 30 years. After which, they become less sustainable.
The Recycling Process
Recycling solar systems requires specialized tools. Therefore, it must be performed well to be worthwhile.
The method of solar panel recycling in South Carolina involves:
- Removing the frame
- Separation of the glass along a conveyor belt
- Thermal processing to evaporate the plastic
- Etching silicon wafers
This approach provides some valuable materials, such as aluminum and glass. Furthermore, this method regains 95% of the glass from the solar panels.
Secondly, thermal processing splits up the unneeded plastic from the important materials. Lastly, slicing the silicon wafer splits up any unnecessary products left behind.
Solar Panel Life Cycle
The lifespan of solar panels seem to be growing parallel with the industry. Furthermore, solar systems have many measures of usefulness and success.
Their lifespan can range from:
- 10 – 12 years: efficiency declines by upwards of 10 percent
- 15 – 20 years: efficiency declines by 20 percent
- 25 – 30 years: efficiency declines significantly
Just like a car, the lifespan of solar panels is dynamic, not static. For example, advanced solar panels can supply power for nearly 40 years. Still, as they age performance begins to drop at a high level.
Recycling Solar Panel Batteries
Not all solar panels need batteries to supply power. Yet many have them as a backup precaution. Similarly, recycling batteries is crucial for an environmentally savvy Earth. On the other hand, solar panel batteries pollute the planet if they are not recycled properly. One of the core pieces of any battery is lithium. It is a relatively rare resource that does great harm to the planet.
If solar panel batteries are recklessly disposed of, toxic waste will grow. Which can ruin our ecosystem. Not only that, but also valuable properties are lost. That alone should inspire businesses to recycle solar panels and the parts that empower them.
Recycle Solar Panels in South Carolina
In summary, solar panel recycling proves to be an indispensable part to sustainability. Using solar panels provides the planet with the renewable power it needs. Especially seeing that solar panels substitute the infamous fossil fuels. Educated businesses must find the best center for solar panel recycling in South Carolina.
For more information, click here to contact Interco.