Segen, a renewable energy equipment distributor, has introduced a solar panel recycling scheme aimed at commercial installers and organisations managing end-of-life solar assets.
The initiative responds to growing volumes of decommissioned panels as the UK’s installed solar capacity increases, particularly across large-scale commercial systems and repowering projects.
Delivered in partnership with Pravas Sustainable Technologies, the scheme is designed to provide collection and recycling of panels, with recovered materials reintroduced into manufacturing supply chains.
The service will initially focus on commercial projects, allowing installers and system owners to arrange compliant removal of panels from operational sites.
A second phase, expected later this year, is planned to extend access to residential installers and customer drop-off points.
Customers will pay a fixed fee per panel, with a minimum collection volume of one pallet, equivalent to 35 panels.
Collections will be available across England, Wales, and Scotland (excluding the Highlands and Islands), with collection typically arranged within 48 hours of booking. Transport costs will be quoted separately.
Recycling scheme targeting end-of-life solar panels
Panels processed through the scheme will be broken down to recover materials including aluminium, glass, silicon, and small quantities of metals such as silver. These materials can then be reused in manufacturing, reducing reliance on raw material extraction.
The scheme is intended to support compliance with waste regulations while contributing to wider efforts to reduce landfill use and improve resource efficiency within the solar sector.
Darren Sykes, Head of Warehouse & Logistics UKI at Segen, says, “With the UK’s commercial solar capacity continuing to expand rapidly, more installations are reaching the end of their operational life or being repowered as technology advances. This creates a significant challenge for installers and system owners who need a reliable, responsible way to manage old panels.
“Our recycling scheme will not only ensure panels are handled safely, but will also recover valuable materials for reuse, reduce landfill impact, and strengthen our customers’ ESG credentials, helping the industry move towards a truly circular model of solar deployment.”
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