Solartys cluster, dedicated to promoting the competitiveness of the solar energy sector and energy efficiency, organized on April 26 the «PV RECYCLING WORKSHOP,» a day to learn about the current situation of solar panel recycling and the opportunities it may bring to the sector in the short term.
The event, held at the Leitat Technology Center in Terrassa, began with the presentation of the results of the European project ELSi, funded by the Horizon 2020 program under the European Commission. European partners from Germany and Belgium presented their findings. Fraunhofer and Geltz Umwelttechnologie gave technical presentations on the valorization and treatment of the different elements that compose solar panels. Meanwhile, Suez, Revatech, and Variata shared insights on the European-level study on waste generation, projections for the coming years, and relevant legislation.
The second part of the day featured presentations from Spanish experts on recycling, solar energy, and life cycle analysis. The Agència Catalana de Residus and Recyclia presented key figures and the current situation of the Spanish market, followed by success stories from Leitat and Inèdit Innovació. To conclude the event, Leitat’s scientific staff offered a guided tour to showcase their facilities and the various research projects they are working on.
The event took place in a relaxed atmosphere, with highly participative and specialized participants who facilitated an interesting and enriching debate, as well as the exchange of ideas.
More information:
Alba Álvarez
Cluster Manager of Solartys and PR of ELSi Project
www.solartys.org
Solartys, Cluster for the Internationalization and Innovation of Spanish Solar Energy Companies, works with companies across Spain related to energy efficiency and solar energy. The group plays a key role in promoting the internationalization and competitiveness of its members, with the support of the Spanish Government, regional autonomous organizations, and the European Union. In terms of international cooperation, Solartys works with universities, research centers, companies, and public bodies to provide technical advice and promote networks among all involved actors.
www.elsi-pv.eu
ELSi Project
Over the last 25 years, there has been rapid growth in the deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems across Europe, and this trend shows no sign of slowing down. As the first PV systems reach the end of their useful life, the challenge of managing their disposal is increasing. This situation presents both a problem and an opportunity. Our team has identified a commercial and market opportunity driven by this growing issue and is working on a technological solution, which will be validated on an industrial scale in the coming months.
