Solar PV decommissioning is increasingly relevant for tenant-installed warehouse solar at end of lease. The BBP Green Lease Toolkit standard addendum specifies tenant responsibility for reinstatement to original roof condition where the lease addendum chose this option (vs ownership transfer to landlord or PPA continuation). We deliver MCS-aligned decommissioning, panel recycling, and professional roof reinstatement.
When solar removal is required
Three scenarios: (a) end-of-lease where addendum chose tenant removal option (most common for shorter leases under 10 years remaining); (b) major roof refurbishment requiring panel removal and reinstall (we'll typically recommend reinstall after roof works rather than full decommission); (c) end-of-asset-life decommissioning at year 25-30 where panels reach end of useful output. The right approach depends on remaining asset value, customer cooperation, and lease structure.
Our decommissioning process
Stage 1: Structural and electrical assessment (1 day). Confirm building condition, electrical infrastructure, panel condition, recoverable equipment value. Stage 2: Asset valuation (if relevant). For end-of-lease where ownership transfer is the chosen option, we provide a 5-10 year-old system valuation working with both tenant and landlord. Stage 3: Decommissioning programme (2-6 weeks depending on system size). Power-down, inverter disconnect, panel removal, mounting system removal, roof penetration sealing where mechanical fixing was used. Stage 4: WEEE-compliant disposal. Solar panels qualify as WEEE waste under UK regulations — we partner with PV CYCLE certified recyclers for proper disposal. Recoverable equipment (inverters, monitoring kit) sometimes refurbished for second-life deployment. Stage 5: Roof reinstatement. Sealing of mechanical fixings, replacement of any damaged membrane or panel sections, post-removal building inspection.
Cost structure
Decommissioning typical: £15-50/kW for systems 200 kW – 5 MW. Roof reinstatement varies with original mounting system: ballasted (membrane preserved) — minimal reinstatement; mechanical fixing — £8-25/kW for sealing penetrations. WEEE disposal cost typically included in decommissioning fee. Asset valuation £500-£2,500 depending on system size.
Common questions about solar removal
When does end-of-lease solar removal apply?
BBP Green Lease addendum specifies three options at lease end: (a) tenant removes the system at expiry — typical for shorter leases; (b) tenant transfers ownership to landlord at agreed value — common where significant asset life remains; (c) PPA continues with successor tenant. Removal applies to option (a).
How much does decommissioning cost?
Typically £15-50/kW for 200 kW – 5 MW systems. Plus £8-25/kW for roof reinstatement if mechanical fixing was used. WEEE disposal usually included. For 1 MW system: total decommissioning cost £35-75k.
Do solar panels get recycled?
Yes. Solar panels qualify as WEEE waste under UK regulations. We partner with PV CYCLE certified recyclers. Glass, aluminium, copper, and silicon are recovered (typically 90%+ by mass). Recoverable inverters and monitoring kit sometimes refurbished for second-life deployment.