PROJECT DESCRIPTION
BACKGROUND
With the rapidly increasing number of End-of-Life (EoL) solar panels there is a striking need for new, efficient and affordable technologies for recycling all valuable materials inside the modules. The main objective of the “close to market” LIFE SIRCULAR is to establish industrial-scale processes able for recycling 10.000 tons/year of EoL feedstock. The proposed technical solutions integrate some new revolutionary physical separation andrefinement techniques with advanced hydromet methods. Partners aim to bring technologies at TRL 9 by the end of the project. The goal is recovering 2.000 tons of low-purity silicon metal and 300 tons of high-purity silicon (99%), as well as extracting 1,25 tons of silver from EoL photovoltaic (PV) panels. The project’s innovative approach not only improves the efficiency of resource recovery but also minimizes environmental impacts by optimizing waste management and reducing the generation of hazardous materials. It will significantly reduces energy use and water consumption with up to 90% water recycling, and employs environmentally friendly leaching agents for metal recovery. It will help to prevent the release of 19.500 tons of CO2 emissions, demonstrating significant climate benefits. In terms of economic impact, the project will generate over 44 new jobs and create a sustainable business model for PV recycling across Europe. The expected economic returns in 5 years are in the order of 30 million EUR. The project partners, from Italy and Germany, bring extensive expertise in recycling technologies, chemical engineering, and circular economy strategies, ensuring the project’s success. Overall, the LIFE SIRCULAR project represents a pioneering effort in sustainable waste management within the PV industry, with the potential for significant replication across other European regions and sectors. The project is a key step towards reducing raw material dependency and fostering a greener, more circular economy.