Zero Waste Sonoma recently received a grant from CalRecycle to host up to 6 solar panel collection events in Sonoma County. This is the only public drop-off program available for solar panels at this time. Collection events will be listed below as they become available.
The events are open for residents of Sonoma County and an appointment is required. No panels from businesses or other counties will be accepted. Email ZWS-SolarRecycling@Sonoma-County.org for more information.
The Department of Toxics Substances Control (DTSC) recently developed regulations for managing spent solar panels as Universal Waste, a category of Hazardous Waste. Solar panels that qualify as Universal Waste must be managed as hazardous and cannot be sent to the landfill, local e-waste collection sites, or in any curbside bins.
Currently, there are no local entities that accept solar panel waste from the general public (except for the events mentioned above). Please contact your solar installer or manufacturer for advice regarding expanding the longevity of your existing panels or for recycling opportunities. If your panels are still in working condition, consider donating them to Habitat For Humanity Restore or selling them on online donation platforms such as Craigslist, Nextdoor, or Facebook Marketplace.
Related topics:
See Materials exchange programs for online donation platforms such as Craigslist, Nextdoor, etc.
