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Design of a business model for competitive end-of-life performance of photovoltaic systems in Brazil

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  • Spellmeier, Júlia Possebon
  • Rosa, Carmen Brum
  • Rigo, Paula Donaduzzi
  • Mello, Mario Fernando
  • Hoss, Marcelo

Abstract

The solar energy market has experienced record growth worldwide in recent years, leading to a significant increase in the production and installation of photovoltaic systems. As these systems reach the end of their useful life, managing photovoltaic waste becomes a critical challenge and an opportunity for innovation. This study aims to develop a business model that creates, delivers, and captures value from end-of-life photovoltaic systems, contributing to the sustainability and competitiveness of this sector in Brazil. The research identifies critical success factors influencing the competitiveness of end-of-life photovoltaic management through a systematic literature review. Furthermore, it maps relationships between stakeholders in the value chain by reviewing grey literature. Additionally, a statistical content analysis captures perspectives on challenges and opportunities of photovoltaic end-of-life through a data collection instrument. Based on these findings, a business model was designed using the business model canvas, incorporating a minimum viable product to test its viability. The results highlight economic, technical, regulatory, and socio-environmental factors driving a sustainable end-of-life photovoltaic market. The proposed model facilitates the integration of reverse logistics, recycling, and reuse strategies, offering a structured path towards a circular economy in the Brazilian photovoltaic sector.

Suggested Citation

  • Spellmeier, Júlia Possebon & Rosa, Carmen Brum & Rigo, Paula Donaduzzi & Mello, Mario Fernando & Hoss, Marcelo, 2025. "Design of a business model for competitive end-of-life performance of photovoltaic systems in Brazil," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 245(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:245:y:2025:i:c:s0960148125004173
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.122755
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