Recycling

In this article for pv magazine, Naresh Mansukhani, CEO, Juniper Green Energy, writes circular economy goes beyond just recycling physical components. Innovative business models are emerging that promote resource efficiency and extend the lifespan of renewable energy technologies.

The IEA Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme’s (IEA-PVPS) latest report on solar panel recycling offers a comprehensive review of all existing technologies in this market segment, from pure mechanical recycling to innovative techniques such as as light pulse treatment, water-jet cleaning, pyrolysis, and chemical treatments.

Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) plan to develop a redesigned PV module for easier recycling, with AUD 5 million ($3.4 million) in federal government funding to help transform Australia’s solar panel recycling industry.

AGL Energy has teamed with solar panel recycler Elecsome to explore the development of a PV materials recovery facility at the site of the coal-fired Bayswater power plant in New South Wales, Australia.

Maxvolt Energy Industries has raised $1.5 million from angel investors to accelerate its lithium battery research and development efforts, enhance the production capacity, and expand market reach.

Advancement in mineral processing and beneficiation technology remains critical for commercialisation of domestic critical mineral resources.

Stefan Wippich, the CEO and co-founder of Germany’s SecondSol platform, recently spoke with pv magazine about the development of the used PV module market. Wippich noted national differences and argued that it will be important to set rules for the trading of secondhand products.

MG Motor India has signed an agreement with Epsilon Group for electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions and battery recycling and second-life expertise.

India is investing in facilities and infrastructure to recycle batteries and recover valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. By doing this, we can reduce our need for new materials and minimize the environmental impact of battery production.

Nitin Gupta, CEO and co-founder of Attero (India’s largest end-to-end e-waste management and Li-ion battery recycling company), shares the prospects of lithium battery recycling in India, recycling methods in use, and approaches to make the process efficient and green.