Swiss PV Circle lays the foundations for the reuse of solar modules
SENS eRecycling and Swissolar from Zurich have completed the Swiss PV Circle project together with the Bern University of Applied Sciences. The aim was to promote the reuse of photovoltaic modules. The partners formulated political recommendations, market analyses and created practical tools.
Around half of the photovoltaic modules that currently end up in the waste stream are basically still functional. Over the past year and a half, the Swiss PV Circle project hastherefore developedpractical tools, technical principles, market analyses and policy recommendations to promote the reuse of PV modules, as detailed in a press release. SENS eRecycling, Swissolar and the Bern University of Applied Sciences are behind the project.
Policy recommendations focus on financial incentives, such as a reuse contribution similar to existing recycling contributions. In addition, harmonisation options such as a nationwide label and certification system are called for in order to make quality visible and create trust in used modules. According to the press release, harmonised authorisation practices for the handling of used modules throughout Switzerland and systematic data collection during the installation and dismantling of solar systems will reduce further hurdles. Practical tools such as a platform prototype with an underlying data model make it possible to assess the appropriate recycling strategy for used modules at an early stage. The project calculated a return of 23,000 to 90,000 tonnes of used photovoltaic modules by 2050.
The project’s market analysis found that the economic viability of reused modules is still limited due to low new prices. Used modules are currently mainly used in smaller applications. In order to achieve wider acceptance, attractive prices, tested quality and a high residual output of the modules are therefore required.
The Swiss PV Circle project aims to reduce future waste volumes by increasing the secondary use of modules. To this end, SENS eRecycling, Swissolar and Bern University of Applied Sciences are working together with partners from the Swiss PV industry.