Solar module prices have declined by 99. 9 per cent since the 1970s from $106 to $0. Learning-by-doing refers to the improved production and manufacturing process of solar modules.
In 1975, the first solar panels cost about $115.3 per watt. By 2010, this price was already $2.15 per watt, and by 2021 it will be only $0.27 per watt. We are witnessing a significant reduction in the cost of one of the most important green technologies – by almost 90% in the last 10 years. Graph of solar panel prices over time (logarithmic scale)
A PE stamped quote from a third party for a 3.37 MWac (about 4.25 MWdc) solar power plant put the price around 4.6¢/Wdc – but that is for a prevailing wage job The 100 MWac/126 MWdc Three Rivers Solar Power Plant in Hancock, Maine put costs at 1.8¢/Wdc. The document notes the Maine model is based on New York and Massachusetts data.
How much does a second-hand solar panel cost?
Second-hand modules are sold according to cost per watt as this is the most standardized way of pricing them, similar to how the prices of new solar panels are compared. As of 2023, the price of a used solar panel can be as low as $0.10 per watt. Even at $0.60 per watt, used solar panels are easily snapped up.
The value of used solar panels also lies in the materials used to make the solar cells. Photovoltaic cells contain elements such as silver and tellurium. These are rare and non-renewable resources that can be extracted from the used solar panels.
Old solar modules are worth money of course. Recently, modules scheduled for recycling were stolen and sent to Africa to be used by locals. The logic is that it isn't relevant that the module is only at 80-85% of its original output – since for the new buyer, it still makes electricity.
Surplus Solar Products | Buyer and seller of new and used solar energy products. Our inventory is constantly changing and contains both new and used solar panels. Much of our inventory can be purchased by the panel or pallet. We ship solar panels across the US and around the world.