Will billions of solar panels become a garbage problem?

The expansion of renewable energies is progressing. In addition to wind turbines, this applies above all to solar systems. But the increasing number of solar panels could become a problem in terms of disposal.

The expansion of renewable energy sources continues to play a crucial role in achieving our climate goals. Every day, energy suppliers put numerous systems into operation around the world. On the one hand, this protects the climate and, on the other hand, improves air quality in the long term.

But what actually happens when, for example, solar panels have reached the end of their service life? This question is now being asked by more and more organizations and governments. According to a post by BBC, at least 2.5 billion solar panels are likely to meet this fate sooner or later. Because that’s how many panels there are supposed to be worldwide at the moment.

Recycling or disposal: what happens to discarded solar panels?

Nowadays, the effort involved in disposing of and recycling such systems is still manageable. Because the panels that are currently being thrown away were installed more than 15 years ago. At that time, the expansion did not proceed as quickly as it does today. Nevertheless, the situation is likely to worsen in the coming years.

Because the 2.5 billion solar panels already mentioned must be recycled or disposed of in 20 years at the latest. Until now, this process was rather complex and not profitable. This is one reason why there are hardly any plants for the complete recovery of the raw materials. But France could soon become a pioneer in this area.

French factory recycles solar panels

Because there is a system from Rosi. Years ago, the company specialized in the recycling of solar panels and thus recovers copper, silicon and silver. The yield has so far been relatively low, but this could soon change if the process is scaled up.

At the end of June 2023, Rosi wants to open the first factory for the almost complete recycling of solar systems. The company hopes to be able to recycle up to 99 percent of all panel components in the near future. The recycled solar cells could then find a second life in new solar systems or in road construction.

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