Solar panels and batteries can be recycled to recover valuable materials and reduce the environmental impact of their disposal.

Solar Panel Recycling Process:

• The collected panels are sorted based on their type, size, and technology. Different types of solar panels may require slightly different recycling methods.

• The frames and connectors of the panels are removed manually or using automated processes. These components are often made of aluminium, which can be recycled separately.

• The remaining components, such as the glass, solar cells, and backsheet, are mechanically shredded into small pieces. This step is aimed at separating the different materials for further processing.

• Through various mechanical and chemical processes, the shredded materials are separated into their individual components, such as glass, metals, and semiconductor materials.

Battery Recycling Process:

• Batteries are sorted by type as each requires specific handling and processing methods.

• Batteries are safely dismantled in controlled environments to prevent hazardous material exposure.

• Materials are mechanically and chemically separated to recover valuable metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper.

• Electrolytes and other chemicals are safely processed and neutralized according to environmental standards.

Material Recovery:

• The glass from solar panels can be recycled and used in the production of new glass products.

• The semiconductor materials, usually silicon-based, can be recovered and reused in the production of new solar cells or other electronic devices.

• The metals, including aluminum and copper from solar panel frames and connectors, are recovered and sent for recycling. These metals can be reused in various industries.

• Battery materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel are refined and returned to battery manufacturers for new battery production.

Solar panels and batteries are collected from a variety of sources, including residential and commercial installations, as well as manufacturing or industrial waste.

While recycling options may vary depending on your location, there are several places where both solar panels and batteries can typically be recycled:

• Manufacturer or Retailer Programs: Some manufacturers and retailers offer take-back and recycling programs for old solar panels and used batteries, especially within product stewardship schemes.

• E-Waste Recycling Centers: Local e-waste facilities accept both solar panels and a wide range of household or industrial batteries for recycling.

• Municipal Recycling Facilities: Many councils operate drop-off points for batteries and, in some cases, solar panels, making community recycling accessible at a local level.

• Specialized Recycling Companies: Dedicated battery and solar panel recyclers accept and process these items using advanced recovery and safety practices. There are thousands of battery drop-off bins in major supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, Aldi, and IGA Australia-wide, making household battery recycling easy and accessible.

Solar panels and batteries are sorted based on their type, size, and technology since different types require different recycling methods.

Most solar panels, including crystalline silicon panels (monocrystalline and polycrystalline) and thin-film panels, are recyclable with recovery rates up to 90-95% of their valuable materials such as glass, metals, and silicon. However, some older panel models may contain hazardous materials like cadmium or selenium, which require special handling during recycling.

Some components such as certain plastics and encapsulants in solar panels are not recyclable and need to be disposed of properly in accordance with environmental regulations to avoid contamination or harm.

For batteries, recyclability depends on the battery chemistry. Common battery types like lithium-ion and lead-acid are widely recyclable, but materials must be carefully handled due to the risk of chemical hazards. Some battery components or smaller batteries with mixed materials may not be recyclable and require safe disposal to protect the environment.

Proper sorting, dismantling, and disposal processes are critical for minimizing environmental impact and ensuring that hazardous substances are managed safely.

At Pan Pacific Recycling, we specialize in the recycling of the following materials:

• E-Waste, including electronic devices and components

• Solar Panels

• Battery recycling (excluding some types mentioned below)

• Copper Cables

• Aluminium Cables

• LPG Gas Bottles

• Air Conditioners

Please note, we do not accept the following items:

• White Goods (large household appliances such as fridges, washing machines)

• Lead-acid Batteries (due to specialized recycling regulations and handling)

• Non-Lithium Household Batteries (typically AAA or AA size)