Solar panels installed during the Philippines' first major solar boom (2015-2020) will reach their 25-year warranty end between 2040-2045. But panels installed in commercial farms since 2010 are already approaching replacement consideration. The question of what happens to end-of-life panels is becoming urgent.
| Component | % of Panel Weight | Recovery Value |
|---|---|---|
| Glass (tempered) | 70-75% | Recyclable — but requires special processing |
| Aluminum frame | 10-15% | High — easily recycled; aluminum scrap value |
| Silicon cells | 3-5% | Medium — pure silicon has value if recovered |
| Copper wiring | 1% | High — copper scrap value |
| EVA encapsulant (plastic) | 5-8% | Low — difficult to separate from glass |
| Silver (cell contacts) | 0.1% | High per gram — worth recovering at scale |
As of 2026, the Philippines has no dedicated solar panel recycling facility. End-of-life panels currently have two fates:
The Philippine RA 6969 (Toxic Substances and Hazardous Waste Act) classifies solar panels as scheduled waste due to lead solder content. Proper disposal requires a DENR-accredited hazardous waste treater. Dumping panels in ordinary landfills is technically illegal but enforcement is limited.
Engr. Jason Morales — Founder, SolarEnergyPH