What Should Alberta Do With Old Solar Panels?
Official title: Solar panel reuse and recycling engagement
Alberta collected feedback on how to handle solar panels when they wear out. Right now, there's no clear plan for recycling them. The province wants to keep these materials out of landfills and build a circular economy where things get reused instead of thrown away.
Why This Matters
Got solar panels on your roof? They'll need replacing in 25-30 years. Right now, most end up in landfills. This could create recycling options and maybe even rebates for responsible disposal.
What Could Change
Alberta may create a regulated recycling program for solar panels, similar to what exists for electronics. Manufacturers could be required to take back old panels. New collection sites might open across the province.
Key Issues
- How should solar panels be collected and recycled at end of life?
- What policies would encourage reuse over disposal?
- What are the current challenges for solar panel recycling in Alberta?
What Happened
Alberta collected input from stakeholders and Indigenous communities through meetings and written submissions. The feedback will inform recommendations on policy options and programs for solar panel reuse and recycling.