Record collection of end-of-life solar panels in 2023, which could fuel second-hand sales

A record volume of used solar panels was collected in 2023 in France for treatment and recycling, indicated Tuesday June 4 the eco-organization responsible for the end of life of these materials, which is however concerned about the growth of a second-hand market without control, particularly abroad.

While this energy is gradually developing, more than 5.200 tonnes of end-of-life photovoltaic panels were recovered last year (around 260.000 panels, or 37% more than in 2022), indicates the annual report of the eco-organization Soren. Some 4.800 tonnes were collected on site and 400 tonnes at voluntary drop-off points.

In terms of treatment, 90% of the 3.600 tonnes of panels processed in 2023 were recycled, "a very encouraging figure", underlines the eco-organization. The remainder has essentially been eliminated (9%).

These materials are rarely found in trash bins, because they are too big for that, and very rarely in illegal dumping, Soren's general manager, Nicolas Defrenne, told the press.

On the other hand, he underlines the rise in informal trade in used panels, notably destined for Africa and Asia, which is not without health risks (electrical risk, etc.).

For the future, Soren estimates that the annual tonnage to be collected should reach some 40.000 tonnes by 2030, already calling for "anticipatory work with manufacturers to develop processing capacities".

The year 2023 notably saw the opening of a new recycling site led by the start-up RosiSolar in La Mûre near Grenoble, "the best thing we do today" according to Mr. Defrenne, who would like “make France the European champion, technically, in the recycling of photovoltaic panels”.

A panel is made up of 70% glass, but 40% of its value comes from silicon and 20% from the silver it contains, which represents a tiny part of its weight.