Recycling of solar modules

Recycling photovoltaic modules is becoming increasingly important as renewable energy deployment increases worldwide. It is clear that sustainable solutions for the end of life of these modules are needed. Even as technologies and capacities improve, the challenge of scaling this process globally remains.

Awareness is created

Awareness has been raised. Although PV waste currently only occurs in small quantities compared to other waste streams, numerous companies around the world have developed recycling plants or adapted existing ones for the recycling of glass, electronics, or metals. Especially in Europe, with a high density of recyclers, especially in Germany, Italy, and France, the legal requirements are generally fully met.

The legal basis for the recycling of solar modules in Europe was established with the revision of the WEEE Directive in 2012. Since then, recycling of PV modules has been mandatory, and the development of collection and recycling systems has evolved dynamically in line with the increasing volume of waste. Manufacturers pay a levy based on the volume, which finances the recyclers' costs through a levy.

quantities

The estimated future volume of PV waste is based on the number of systems installed up to 2020. Forecasts indicate that the amount of PV waste will increase significantly approximately 25 years after installation. This underscores the need to establish effective recycling processes.

Abbildung 1: Masse von Solarmodulen pro Jahr zum Recyceln und neu installiert in Deutschland. Daten von *Umweltbundesamt (BMU) und EUROSTAT 2024.

Abbildung 2: Bestandteile eines Solarmoduls für Recycling.

reuse

With the increasing amount of waste, innovative recycling approaches are coming into focus. These promote sustainable, resource-saving processes and improve the quality and efficient use of natural resources. In many cases, the reusability of modules is also being tested, which has a positive impact on the environment and the economy. Used modules are not only used in new plants in Europe but are also exported.

New approaches to solutions

Modern recycling processes, such as those used by Reiling in Germany or ROSI in France, enable the comprehensive recovery of valuable materials from PV modules. In addition to mechanical processes, innovative technologies are also used that enable the separation of glass and plastic or the recovery of silicon and precious metals.

Conclusion

Existing capacities and the ongoing development of recycling processes provide a solid foundation for a sustainable circular economy. These are complemented by concepts for reuse and optimization of material flows, further improving the ecological and economic efficiency of PV recycling.

What does this mean for customers?

• Free disposal via local recycling centers for private households

• Solar module manufacturers are obliged to take back PV modules

• No additional disposal costs

• Customers can be sure that the modules are environmentally friendly

  be recycled