• Tech Tech

Energy company unveils new service to address $450 million issue: 'Happening not a moment too soon'

The move reflects a growing need.

The move reflects a growing need.

Photo Credit: iStock

What happens to solar panels once they're no longer useful? One leading energy company is turning that question into a major opportunity — and helping build a cleaner, more circular energy future in the process.

As reported by EnergySage, Qcells, a Korean solar manufacturer with two factories in Dalton, Georgia, has announced plans to launch EcoRecycle, a first-of-its-kind solar recycling facility based in Cartersville. The company will start by recycling up to 250 megawatts of used panels each year and aims to grow its recycling network across the United States.

With this move, Qcells becomes the first producer of crystalline silicon (C-Si) solar panels to handle the entire process — from manufacturing to recycling — within the country. Kelly Weger, the company's senior director of sustainability, called it a vital step: "Effectively managing solar waste is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the clean energy sector."

The move reflects a growing need. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, most solar panels last 25 to 30 years, and by 2030, retired panels could contain up to $450 million worth of recoverable raw materials. This is roughly the amount needed to produce 60 million new panels. 


Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area.

To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.

The Cool Down may receive a commission on signups made through links on this page, but we only promote partners we vet and believe in. For more cool tips like this one, check out our solutions marketplace here.

While most panels in use today were installed after 2017, early signs of panel retirements are emerging — and as EnergySage puts it, Qcells' move is "happening not a moment too soon."

Meanwhile, for households, solar technology continues to reduce both utility costs and planet-heating pollution. EnergySage, an independent platform for quotes from vetted solar installers, offers tools that clarify pricing, system options, and incentives.

Through the platform, the average user can access nearly $10,000 in savings through available rebates and tax credits. Its state-by-state solar map shows typical installation costs and incentives by region.

However, in switching to solar power, time may be a factor. Solar Builder and NPR both shared that the 30% solar tax credit is set to expire after 2025, with Congress voting to phase it out. To qualify for the credit, installations must be completed by January 1, 2026. This change could significantly affect savings.

FROM OUR PARTNER

Save $10,000 on solar panels without even sharing your phone number

Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers that can help you save as much as $10k on installation.

To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best local options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.

Qcells' move reflects a broader shift toward full-cycle sustainability in solar, not just how panels are made and used, but what happens after retirement.

Which of these factors is the biggest obstacle preventing you from getting solar panels?

The upfront cost 💰

The way they look 🙈

Not sure where to start 🤔

No concerns here! 😄

Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

Cool Divider