China revolutionizes solar energy: they have created the first 100% recycled and efficient solar panel.
The challenge of solar panels and their recycling
Solar panels, although a key source of clean energy, face a challenge in their lifecycle. After two or three decades of use, their performance degrades, creating the need for replacement. The problem lies in the fact that recycling these panels has been costly and limited in terms of recovering certain materials. While aluminum and glass can be largely recycled, silicon and other components have presented significant challenges.
Until now, silicon wafers required high-temperature thermal treatment, and some materials, such as silver, were difficult to extract and reuse efficiently. This process was not only expensive but also environmentally inefficient.
The first 100% recycled solar panel: a milestone in sustainability
Trina Solar, one of the leading Chinese manufacturers of photovoltaic technology, has taken a major step by creating the first 100% recycled crystalline silicon solar panel. The secret behind this advancement lies in the 37 recycling technologies that the company has developed and patented. These techniques allow for the separation and reuse of not only silicon and aluminum but also other valuable materials like silver.
Among the innovations are special separating agents, advanced chemical technologies to dissolve unwanted materials, and silver extraction methods through wet treatments. These technologies make it possible for previously discarded materials to be assembled into new panels without losing efficiency.
Efficiency of 20.7%: a competitive performance
Trina Solar’s recycled solar panel has demonstrated an efficiency of 20.7%, placing it close to conventional solar panels. Although slightly below the 25% achieved by some latest-generation panels, it remains a highly competitive option. With over 645 watts of power, this 100% recycled panel uses TOPcon cells, one of the…
This advancement not only marks a milestone in sustainability but also demonstrates that it is possible to reuse discarded solar panels without compromising their performance.
A more sustainable future for solar energy
This achievement is especially relevant in a context where many countries, including those in the European Union, are demanding that at least 80% of solar panel materials be recyclable. With Trina Solar’s technology, it may no longer be necessary to extract more metals to manufacture new solar panels, as existing materials can be efficiently reused.
The creation of this recycled solar panel is not only a significant step towards sustainability in the industry but also has the potential to reduce dependence on extracting new resources, improving both environmental impact and production costs.
