Large-Scale New Jersey Solar Panel Recycling and Disposal Services

    It is a common perception that solar energy is most suited for states such as Southern California, Arizona, North Caroline, and Texas. These states lie in the Sun Belt and receive the highest percentage of solar irradiance. New Jersey, which is located in the northeastern region of the USA, is an exception to this. It receives an abundance of sun exposure and it has made good use of this resource. 

    With 140,749 installations and a generation capacity of 3,739.3 MW, New Jersey is one of the top ten solar states in the USA. New Jersey has been a champion of solar energy right from the start and in 2011, it was the second-largest solar state. The previous decade saw a rapid increase in the installation of solar equipment in New Jersey. In 2011, New Jersey had 306.1 MW of installed solar power which was a 131% increase from the previous year. To give a clearer picture, the solar generation capacity of New Jersey stood at 50 megawatts in 2007 whereas according to the latest statistics, it is now 3,739.3 MW. 

    The abundance of solar irradiance, solar-friendly state laws, and state-level drive to increase reliance on solar energy has resulted in the rapid proliferation of solar energy across New Jersey. The Renewable Portfolio Standard dictates that by 2021, the contribution of renewable energy to New Jersey’s energy mix should reach 22.5%. 

    Current State of Solar in New Jersey

    • National Ranking: 7th (11th in 2020)
    • Enough Solar Installed to Power: 579,252 homes
    • Percentage of State’s Electricity from Solar: 6.79%
    • Growth Projection and Ranking: 2,284 MW over the next 5 years (ranks 15th)

    Another reason for New Jersey’s exceptionally high solar installation rates is state-sponsored solar incentives which result in the more profitable generation of solar energy. One example of solar-friendly legislation is the exemption of sales tax from solar products. New Jersey has a 7% sales tax but solar panels and other necessary equipment are exempted from it. This reduces the cost of initial solar investment. 

    Need for Solar Panel Disposal Solutions

    The increased rate of solar installation in New Jersey also raises the important question of the disposal of solar equipment. Solar Panels have a useful life of 25 years, after which their operational capacity decreases considerably. Recycling of end-of-use solar panels is being regarded as the most feasible disposal solution. Pursuant to Section 13:1E-229 – New Jersey Solar Panel Recycling Commission has been established. The goal of the commission is to research the potential and feasibility of recycling discarded solar panels and other equipment. 

    New Jersey is experiencing a state-level drive for the installation of solar panels and an increased emphasis on their recycling. We Recycle Solar provides large-scale solar panel decommissioning and recycling services that are in consonance with all federal and state laws. Contact us.