Downgrade Photovoltaic Panels Energy Bureau

Can I repower a PV system at the end of the performance period?

An IRS requirement that affects the decision to repower a PV system at the end of the performance period is that for a system to be eligible for the ITC, at least 80% of the cost must be for new equipment (“original use”).

Do photovoltaic systems need a sustainable end-of-life?

“As we accelerate deployment of photovoltaic systems, we must also recognize the pressing need to address end-of-life for the materials in a sustainable way,” said Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy.

Should solar PV panels be recycled?

We recommend that recycling should be made commercially necessary by making manufacturers responsible for recovering materials from solar PV panels EOL. In summary, the management of panels EOL and other hazardous waste is obligatory.

What is a photovoltaic power generation project?

photovoltaic (PV) power generation project involves design, construction, and operation of a PV power plant over a performance period of 20–30 years. The duration of a financial prospectus or power purchase agreement (PPA) often determines the expected performance period.

What if PV recycling is fully injected back into the economy?

If fully injected back into the economy, the value of the recovered material could exceed USD 15 billion by 2050. Sectors like PV recycling will be essential in the world’s transition to a sustainable, economically viable and increasingly renewables-based energy future.