QUASAR

Worldwide installed solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity grew from 70 GW in 2011 to more than 1 TW in 2022. With a typical lifespan of 25-30 years, quantities of decommissioned modules are expected to grow tenfold by 2050. It is becoming increasingly important to consider the end-of-life (EoL) procedures for decommissioned PV technology as waste begins to accumulate. In the EU, EoL PV modules are considered e-waste under the WEEE directive, with the responsibility for their collection and recycling placed on manufacturers.

QUASAR aims to enable a circular economy for the solar PV industry. QUASAR will develop and implement solutions for a systematic collection and management methodology and decision tools for EOL-PV-modules based on a holistic approach between all parts and actors across the EOL supply chain including concepts of reverse logistic technologies, AI/machine learning, product lifecycle information management (PLIM) based on digital twins, and best practices for sorting, warehouse operations, testing and repair/reuse.

EPRI Europe participation 

EPRI Europe will lead Work Packages 2 and 3, addressing challenges on Product Circularity, Waste Stream Information, End-Of-Life  Management, and Digitalisation. These efforts include:

• Estimate decommissioning and repowering costs
• Compile decommissioning and repowering best practices
• Review EOL service provider repair and refurbishment practices 
• Develop data management solutions to support End-Of-Life processing

Additionally, EPRI Europe will develop training and educational resources for EOL service providers and for interested public 

EPRI Related Programs

• Program P252 Environmental Aspects of Solar 
• Program 207 Solar Generation