Solar Panel Recycling Program Launched in Queensland
The Queensland government has partnered with the Smart Energy Council to launch the Solar Panel Stewardship program, a solar panel recycling initiative aimed at dealing with renewable waste. With the increasing use of solar panels across the state, it has become imperative to find sustainable solutions for their disposal. The program not only focuses on recycling solar panels but also aims to guide better practices in the renewable energy sector.
Mick de Brenni, the state minister for energy, highlighted the significance of this program, stating, “Not only do solar panels make renewable energy, but now they’re renewable themselves.” The launch event for the program took place in Redlands as part of the Community Cabinet, and six collection sites were established in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Rockhampton, Toowoomba, and Townsville. Additional locations will be announced in the coming weeks, covering large areas of the state.
Leanne Linard, the minister for the environment, emphasized the importance of starting collections for this “nation-leading” stewardship pilot. She stated, “It also provides the opportunity for these panels to be given a new or extended life or be recycled to the highest standard.” The pilot program has received funding of nearly $5.5 million through the Queensland Government’s Recycling and Jobs Fund and the Queensland Renewable Energy Industry Association Grant.
John Grimes, CEO of the Smart Energy Council, revealed that more than five recycling companies have expressed their interest in entering the Queensland market. The government release also stated that the product stewardship pilot aims to test the feasibility of collecting, reusing, and recycling solar panels from various sources, including homes, businesses, and solar farms. The ultimate goal is to reduce the amount of solar panel waste ending up in landfills. Additionally, this pilot program will inform the creation of a national stewardship scheme for solar panel recycling.
Several prominent recycling and reuse companies, along with solar industry firms like Rexel, Resolarcycle, and Solar Shift, are participating in the pilot. Their involvement indicates the commitment of the industry to finding sustainable solutions for solar waste. By reusing and recycling solar panels, valuable materials can be recovered, reducing the need for raw materials and minimizing environmental impact.
During the program’s launch, de Brenni expressed Queensland’s ambitious goals for e-waste management. He stated, “We know that, like other forms of e-waste, there is enormous potential for parts to be recycled and, in some instances, repaired instead of ending up in landfill.” The government aims to collect 80 percent of all e-waste generated in the state and recover 90 percent of materials for reuse. This commitment to sustainable waste management aligns with global efforts to transition towards a circular economy.
In conclusion, the Solar Panel Stewardship program in Queensland represents a significant step towards addressing the challenges of solar panel waste. By implementing a pilot program and collaborating with industry experts, the government aims to establish effective recycling practices and pave the way for a national stewardship scheme. Through the recycling and reuse of solar panels, Queensland can move closer to its ambitious e-waste management goals while promoting a more sustainable renewable energy sector.
