SolarPanelRecycling.com Recognized for Innovation in Solar Panel Recycling at Carolina Recycling Association 2025
SolarPanelRecycling.com Awarded for Innovation in Recycling
On April 30, 2025, SolarPanelRecycling.com (SPR) made waves in the sustainable energy sector as they received the prestigious Carolina Recycling Association (CRA) Award for Innovation and Impact. This accolade highlights SPR's groundbreaking efforts in solar panel recycling, recognizing it as a pioneering force within the Carolinas and across the nation. The award was presented during the CRA's annual conference in Wilmington, North Carolina, a gathering that showcased the latest advancements in waste reduction and recycling.
At the forefront of this recognition is SPR's innovative solar panel recycling technology, which utilizes proprietary methods to efficiently recover valuable materials from end-of-life solar modules. By extracting and separating clean materials, SPR facilitates the reintroduction of these resources into domestic manufacturing, thus contributing to a more sustainable materials supply chain. This initiative not only aids in environmental conservation but also paves the way for economic growth within the recycling industry.
During the conference, SPR's CEO and Co-Founder, Brett Henderson, spoke to a packed audience about the vital need for scalable and effective solutions in the solar panel recycling sector. He emphasized the considerable impact of the solar industry on North Carolina's economy, highlighting that it has generated over 7,300 jobs and attracted investments worth $13.3 billion. Moreover, with the installation of more than 9.6 GW of solar capacity, the state ranks fourth in the nation for solar energy output. However, Henderson noted a looming challenge: North Carolina's landfills are expected to reach capacity within a decade, particularly in densely populated areas.
In response to this pressing issue, his remarks referenced the upcoming 2026 landfill ban on photovoltaic (PV) modules in North Carolina, underscoring the state’s forward-thinking approach to environmental sustainability. "SPR is wholly committed to supporting this initiative, ensuring that we manage solar waste responsibly and innovate in recycling practices," he asserted.
Henderson further elaborated on the economic, technological, and supply-chain opportunities that arise from implementing robust solar panel recycling processes. He underscored the necessity of policy leadership in expanding these efforts across the nation, advocating for cooperation between industry stakeholders, lawmakers, and recyclers to address future challenges proactively.
The CRA Award serves as recognition for those organizations that demonstrate significant achievements in the recycling industry, highlighting leadership, innovation, and measurable impact. SPR's distinguished success in tackling complex waste streams and its effective application of new technologies in material recovery were noted as key factors in their selection. Mary McClellan, Executive Director of the CRA, stated, "SolarPanelRecycling.com truly exemplifies the technological innovation and vision required to tackle some of our country’s most intricate waste management issues."
The award was accepted on behalf of the SPR team and their parent company, PowerHouse Recycling, by Garrett Powell, Director of Sourcing and Client Services. This recognition comes amid increasing national attention for SPR’s advancements, including a recent visit from U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (NC), further solidifying their reputation as leaders in solar recycling.
As a company rooted in North Carolina, SolarPanelRecycling.com specializes in the sustainable management of end-of-life solar panels. Their commitment to environmental stewardship and the promotion of a circular economy manifests through their innovative recycling solutions. By responsibly managing solar panel waste, they play an integral role in ensuring the longevity of renewable energy sources.
In conclusion, the recognition awarded to SolarPanelRecycling.com not only celebrates their technological advancements but also represents a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future. As the demand for solar energy continues to grow, so too does the imperative to manage its waste responsibly. Companies like SPR are leading the charge in this critical endeavor, innovating and promoting practices that will benefit both the planet and society.