Mecklenburg County Accepting Solar Panels for Recycling

Mecklenburg County Solid Waste is now accepting solar panels as part of its enhanced recycling program.

Residents and businesses can drop off up to 10 panels at Compost Central (140 Valleydale Rd., Charlotte). If a resident/business has more than 10 panels, they’re asked to email [email protected] first.

This new effort diverts solar panels, which typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, from landfills. Solar panels contain many recyclable components, including glass—which makes up the majority of the panel— as well as aluminum and copper wires.

Mecklenburg County Solid Waste is partnering with SolarPanelRecycling.com to offer this enhanced recycling effort. Findings from the program will also be shared with national solar panel organizations to inform similar recycling efforts nationwide.