A recent report by IEA PVPS Task 12 highlights the increasing global focus on solar panel recycling as the volume of end-of-life modules rises dramatically. Countries are ramping up regulations and expanding their recycling capabilities to address this burgeoning waste challenge. Europe remains at the forefront, implementing effective waste management strategies, while various countries, including Japan and South Korea, are beginning to establish their own frameworks to manage solar waste effectively.
The “Status of PV Module Recycling in IEA PVPS Task 12 Countries” report provides a comprehensive analysis of efforts around the world to tackle the growing issue of solar module disposal. Europe leads the way through its Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive, mandating EU member states to establish take-back and recycling systems with rigorous recovery objectives. In 2022, European nations collected approximately 50,000 tonnes of PV waste, marking a significant increase, with Italy and Germany being the top contributors.
Germany’s waste is expected to become a pressing concern, potentially reaching up to one million tonnes by 2030. To accommodate this, the Reiling company group has established Europe’s largest dedicated PV recycling facility in Münster, capable of processing 50,000 tonnes annually. In a similar vein, France’s nonprofit Soren managed to recycle over 7,000 tonnes in 2024, boasting recycling rates over 86%.
Outside Europe, countries are adopting varied strategies for solar waste disposal. Japan processed around 2,079 tonnes of solar modules in 2022, with pending policies aiming to formalize recycling practices. South Korea has also implemented extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations, surpassing its initial recycling goals significantly in its first year. Meanwhile, China, facing the most dramatic challenges with an anticipated million tonnes of module waste by 2030, is beginning to invest in recycling capabilities.
Research and innovations in recycling technology are underway, particularly in Europe, where projects supported by the EU aim for impressive recovery rates for precious metals. These initiatives include various techniques, such as chemical recovery, which are set to replace traditional mechanical methods. In Asia, material recovery rates are also rising, with projects in Australia targeting high recovery metrics.
Despite improvements in recycling technologies, economic factors remain a significant hurdle. High costs for recycling compared to landfill disposal generate challenges for the industry, with some U.S. recycling costs reaching over $14 per module. Companies are exploring mobile units to enhance on-site recycling and reduce logistics expenses.
Globally, momentum is growing for regulatory frameworks to support effective recycling practices. Australia plans to launch a mandatory stewardship program by 2025, while numerous U.S. states are establishing specific regulations for solar waste management. The report underscores the importance of harmonizing regulatory and technological approaches tailored to local contexts to meet escalating material demands sustainably. Effective management of the transition towards robust recycling systems will play a crucial role in maintaining the solar industry’s sustainability in the long run.