The solar industry’s readiness for an expected surge in end-of-life PV projects and equipment is the subject of a special report that leads issue 45 of PV Tech Power, out now.
As PV power plants built during the industry’s first growth spurt reach the end of their lifespans or are retired early, questions about how they are dismantled and the waste materials they generate are handled become increasingly critical. The figures are astonishing, with estimates suggesting the volume of end-of-life modules could reach tens of millions of tonnes in the next 20 years.
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Our cover report looks at how the industry should approach the issue, first by developing a set of best practices for decommissioning end-of-life projects. We also then examine some of the technologies and processes being developed in different parts of the world for recycling waste modules and recovering as much of the valuable materials they contain as possible.
As we approach the annual Intersolar Europe event in Munich, we also look at some of the challenges facing Europe’s PV industry. After several record years, the rate of growth in new installations has slowed slightly in the past year and looks set to remain cool for at least a couple more. We look at some of the structural challenges that must be overcome to underpin the next phase of the continent’s energy transition.
Other highlights in this edition include:
- The challenges and risks of AI adoption in the solar industry
Is the PV industry entering the AI age with its eyes wide open? - eBOS steps into the spotlight
How electrical balance-of-system is becoming central to project cost reductions - Unpicking America’s module supply chain challenge
How US trade policy is reshaping global solar manufacturing - How exposed are we?
Cyber risk, supply chains and the reality of grid resilience in the renewables era - Designing for water
Why flood risk must move to the front of utility-scale solar design - Forecasts are always wrong
Why co-location depends on real-time data and integration
You can download the digital edition of PV Tech Power 45 via our subscription service. PV Tech Premium subscribers have access to every edition as soon as it is available.
