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Recycling of Silicon-Based Photovoltaic Modules: Mediterranean Region Insight

Author

Listed:
  • Ana-María Diez-Suarez

    (Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering and Automation, University of Leon, Campus Vegazana S/N, 24007 Leon, Spain)

  • Marta Martínez-Benavides

    (Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering and Automation, University of Leon, Campus Vegazana S/N, 24007 Leon, Spain)

  • Cristina Manteca Donado

    (School of Mining Engineering and Technology, University of Leon, Campus Vegazana S/N, 24007 Leon, Spain)

  • Jorge-Juan Blanes-Peiró

    (Department of Electrical and Systems Engineering and Automation, University of Leon, Campus Vegazana S/N, 24007 Leon, Spain)

  • Elia Judith Martínez Torres

    (Chemical and Environmental Bioprocess Engineering Group, School of Mining Engineering and Technology, University of Leon, Campus Vegazana S/N, 24007 Leon, Spain)

Abstract

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic (PV) installations across Mediterranean Europe since 2007 has resulted in a substantial increase in the need for end-of-life (EoL) management strategies for monocrystalline PV modules. This paper reviews the technical challenges and opportunities associated with the recycling of PV modules, focusing on the physical, chemical, and thermal processes currently employed. Despite advancements in recycling technology, significant gaps remain in infrastructure and regulatory enforcement, particularly in Mediterranean countries. The recovery of valuable materials such as silicon, silver, and glass presents both economic and environmental benefits, although the costs of recycling remain a key barrier to widespread adoption. Our analysis suggests that optimizing these recycling processes could improve their profitability and scalability, enabling more effective resource recovery. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy and infrastructure development to support the sustainable management of PV waste across the Mediterranean region.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana-María Diez-Suarez & Marta Martínez-Benavides & Cristina Manteca Donado & Jorge-Juan Blanes-Peiró & Elia Judith Martínez Torres, 2024. "Recycling of Silicon-Based Photovoltaic Modules: Mediterranean Region Insight," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(23), pages 1-44, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:23:p:6015-:d:1533076
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Surya Dev Singh & Pradyut Anand & Mario Di Nardo & Abhishek Kumar Singh & Shatrudhan Pandey, 2025. "Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling Technology of Silicon-Based Photovoltaic Solar Panels: A Systematic Review," Circular Economy and Sustainability, Springer, vol. 5(8), pages 7283-7328, December.
    2. Le Quyen Luu & Thanh Quang Nguyen & Soroush Khakpour & Maurizio Cellura & Francesco Nocera & Nam Hoai Nguyen & Ngoc Han Bui, 2025. "Material Demand and Contributions of Solar PV End-of-Life Management to the Circular Economy: The Case of Italy," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-25, July.

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