Kyocera Group and NPC Collaborate on Reuse and Recycling of Solar Panels.

Kyocera Communication Systems (KCCS) and Nippon Photovoltaic Corporation (NPC) announced on April 8 that they have begun exploring a collaboration aimed at the reuse and recycling of used solar panels. This partnership marks an important step forward in addressing the growing challenge of solar panel waste, with both companies bringing unique technologies to the table.

KCCS, a member of the Kyocera Group, has extensive experience in solar power plant construction, having successfully installed around 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity. NPC, on the other hand, specializes in the intermediate processing of discarded solar panels for reuse and recycling. Using its proprietary hot knife separation technology, NPC dismantles old panels and recovers valuable materials for reuse.

The two companies are now discussing the development of a new solar power system installation scheme that integrates solar panel reuse and recycling. Under this collaboration, KCCS is expected to provide used panels, while NPC will handle the recycling and reselling of these panels, turning waste into a valuable resource.

Solar panels experienced rapid growth after the introduction of Japan's Feed-in Tariff (FIT) system in 2012, which incentivized the installation of renewable energy systems. However, as many of these panels near the end of their lifespan in the late 2030s, it is predicted that a significant number will be discarded. This collaboration is expected to begin around 2030, with an initial focus on addressing panels from KCCS’s installed projects.

By working together, KCCS and NPC aim to create a sustainable, circular economy for solar energy infrastructure that not only reduces waste but also helps to secure the future of renewable energy.