Solar Panels

Alternative ways to recycle
Illegal in Garbage & Drains
Hazardous Waste Special Instructions

Special Waste Collection
Hazardous waste cannot be placed in your containers. Schedule a special waste collection by emailing [email protected] or calling Athens’ Customer Service Department at 888-336-6100.

Portable Solar Panel Disposal
For small solar panels (such as those used to charge individual batteries or string lights), may need to be disposed of as Hazardous Waste. Click here to find your city or county’s designated e-waste and/or Household Hazardous Waste drop-off site or collection event. Check their website for an acceptable items list.

Trash Bin

Never Toss or Dump Illegally

Solar panels contain heavy metals such as silver, copper, lead, arsenic, cadmium and selenium. Don’t throw them away or dump them because they can leach toxic chemicals into the environment.

Broom-Handle

Treat Broken Panels as Hazardous Waste

Broken pieces must be cleaned up and properly packaged to minimize the potential escape of hazardous materials. Contact the solar panel manufacturer for detailed instructions on cleanup and disposal.

Alternative Ways to Recycle

Return to the Manufacturer

Contact the manufacturer of your solar panels to see if they have a program for recycling or refurbishing old panels.

Did You Know?

Solar Panels a Toxic Problem for Landfills?

California has had incentive programs for home solar panels dating back as far as 2006. Now these panels are nearing the end of their life, and without a clear way to recycle them, many are ending up in landfills. Read more from the LA Times.