Introduction
Stichting OPEN, in collaboration with Holland Solar and Stichting ZRN, will launch a tender in early June focusing on recycling discarded solar panels. This initiative is crucial for developing a sustainable and efficient processing approach, as the volume of discarded solar panels is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
What Does the Tender Entail?
This tender is divided into two parts:
1. High Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
Focused on processing technologies with a proven track record for recycling solar panels.
2. Innovative Techniques
Targeting promising, advanced methods that can be further developed through pilot projects.
This two-part structure creates room for both well-established technologies and innovative solutions still in the testing phase.
Publication and Funding
The expression of interest document will be published on June 3 on the Mercell platform. Funding options include a disposal fee that may be linked to possible subsidies, ensuring a sustainable, long-term processing strategy.
Currently, about 1,400 tons of discarded solar panels are collected annually. Experts predict this number will rise, requiring additional capacity and new processing methods.
Future Processing
Although the volume of discarded solar panels is still relatively small, it is expected to increase significantly over the next five to eight years. This anticipated growth will make it feasible to develop and scale high-quality processing facilities. Stichting OPEN also collaborates with European sister organizations and local initiatives, such as Caparis Leeuwarden, to encourage small-scale reuse.
A Level Playing Field
Ensuring that all producers and importers contribute equally to the collection and recycling of solar panels is essential. This prevents unfair competition from so-called “freeriders” and promotes an efficient, equitable system.
Forecast for the Coming Years
In the short term, discarded solar panel volumes remain limited, but within five to eight years, they should increase enough to justify large-scale, high-end recycling. The goal is to achieve a processing capacity of at least 10,000 tons per year.
Reuse and Recycling
Besides optimizing recycling processes, Stichting OPEN also focuses on reusing panels. In a separate process, the organization investigates ways to repurpose still-functional panels. This parallel effort prevents valuable materials and working panels from being unnecessarily discarded.
Conclusion
With this planned tender process, Stichting OPEN is taking an important step toward future-proof, sustainable solar panel processing in the Netherlands. The expected surge in discarded solar panels, combined with innovative technologies and a fair market environment, will help shape a circular, greener future for the solar energy sector.
