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Tag: Module

  • Swiss PV Circle lays the foundations for the reuse of solar modules

    Swiss PV Circle lays the foundations for the reuse of solar modules

    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.

  • Solar industry wants to reuse used photovoltaics

    Solar industry wants to reuse used photovoltaics

    SENS eRecycling, the industry association Swissolar and the Biel-based Department of Engineering & Information Technology at Bern University of Applied Sciences are working with other partners to promote the circular economy in the solar industry. As part of the Swiss PV Circle project, they want to extend the lifespan of photovoltaics by creating business models for the reuse of used modules, according to a press release.

    The project is based on the observation that photovoltaic modules still have 90 per cent of their original output even after 20 years. Nevertheless, they are often discarded because they are either damaged or the operators want to upgrade to more powerful models.

    The partners want to collect data on the modules used in Switzerland and make this available to all stakeholders via a digital platform. The development of business models also involves ensuring an infrastructure for the dismantling, storage and testing of used modules, including their labelling. It should also be possible to track the modules throughout their entire service life.

    The module manufacturers Meyer Burger Technology and 3S Swiss Solar Solutions in Thun, Helion Energy in Cham ZG as an installer and operator of systems, the energy supplier CKW as well as KWB Planreal in Widnau SG and Reiling PV-Recyling GmbH & Co. KG from Münster in North Rhine-Westphalia, two specialists in the recycling of photovoltaic systems, are also participating in Swiss PV Circle.