Expected Outcome
Photovoltaic power generation is pivotal in the transition to a clean energy system and the achievement of the zero-emissions target. To that end, it is important to enhance its sustainability while creating wealth and additional employment opportunities in Europe. Consequently, project results are expected to contribute to all of the following outcomes:
- Demonstrate efficient, low-cost, emerging recycling technologies for PV modules/products.
- Increase recyclability and minimise the environmental impact of PV technology.
- Introduce new business models and open new markets in PV recycling.
- Reduce dependency on primary raw materials through the circular use of resources, sustainable products and innovation.
- Strengthen domestic sourcing of raw materials in the EU.
Scope
PV technology is undergoing a transition to a new generation of efficient, low-cost products based on various photoactive materials. PV technology has definite environmental advantages over competing electricity generation technologies, and the PV industry follows a pro-active life-cycle approach to prevent future environmental impact and to sustain these advantages. However, long-term sustainability of photovoltaics will be largely dependent on the effectiveness of the process solutions that will be adopted to recycle the unprecedented volume of end-of-life panels/products expected to be generated in the near future. Recycling is indispensable to avoid the loss of the valuable materials employed to produce photovoltaics and, at the same time, prevent harmful elements, including, for example, heavy metals, to be dispersed into the environment through improper disposal practices.
The proposal should address all of the following:
- Forecast the PV waste streams and estimate the market potentials.
- Develop and demonstrate flexible, high efficiency and throughput recycling technologies adapted to the large volumes of PV modules/products that will be disposed in the future, depending on the typologies of cells/modules/products and reverse logistics.
- Demonstrate re-use potential of high-value recycled material (maintaining its purity and/or integrity) in the PV sector.
- Demonstrate a business case for the concept and a market introduction strategy.
- Address the following related aspects: low environmental impact, resource efficiency and circularity potential.
The proposal should involve multidisciplinary consortia including industrial partners.
Eligible costs will take the form of a lump sum.
Specific Topic Conditions
Activities are expected to achieve TRL 7 by the end of the project – see General Annex B.
Cross-cutting Priorities:
Digital Agenda
Artificial Intelligence
Deadline
10 January 2023
For further information: Funding & tenders
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