2025-03-18
On our planet, traditional resources are neither infinite nor inexhaustible. As resource depletion accelerates, humanity faces an urgent wake-up call. The adoption and application of renewable energy are becoming increasingly integrated into daily life. As a key player in the green circular economy, PV recycling presents both economic and social value, advocating for a cleaner, healthier living environment for all.
With the global energy crisis and environmental challenges intensifying, nations worldwide have formulated and implemented carbon neutrality action plans to drive the transition toward green and sustainable development. In recent years, the PV industry has experienced rapid growth, with solar installations increasing steadily. It is well known that modules have a typical lifespan of 25-30 years. As time progresses and solar deployment expands, the issue of module recycling is becoming increasingly prominent. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), by 2030, the cumulative weight of decommissioned PV modules requiring recycling will reach approximately 8 million tons, and by 2050, this number is expected to soar to nearly 80 million tons. The establishment of a systematic approach to green design, regulated recycling, high-value utilization, and eco-friendly disposal will play a crucial role in resource conservation and reducing the demand for virgin materials.
As a leading player in the solar industry, DAS Solar has embedded sustainable circular strategies into its corporate DNA. The company was among the first to introduce the DASGREEN initiative, actively implementing a comprehensive low-carbon strategy to minimize the environmental footprint of large-scale industrial production. By integrating solar installations at its manufacturing facilities and surrounding office areas, DAS Solar is realizing its zero-carbon commitment, producing clean energy with green power to optimize energy efficiency and ensure resource sustainability. The company has established zero-carbon factories in Quzhou and Zhangzhou, setting a benchmark for green manufacturing. Furthermore, it actively encourages supply chain partners to participate in carbon reduction initiatives, leveraging collective industry efforts to drive a more sustainable future.
DAS Solar is also spearheading Design for Recycling (DFR) principles, focusing on material reduction in key components such as wafers, solar cells, and silver paste. Through green eco-design, hazardous substance substitution, wafer thinning, and advanced manufacturing processes, the company aims to minimize waste at the source. PV modules contain valuable materials such as silicon, silver, and copper, and through efficient recycling, these resources can be recovered and reintegrated into production, reducing reliance on finite raw materials and enhancing overall resource efficiency.
If not properly managed, decommissioned modules can pose potential environmental risks, affecting ecosystems and human health. Implementing scientific and responsible recycling processes mitigates environmental damage while preserving soil, water, and air quality. DAS Solar is at the forefront of PV module dismantling and recycling research, employing a fully physical process using adaptive frame removal equipment, thermal delamination systems, ultra-fine powder separation, multi-stage material sorting, and comprehensive dust control technologies. This innovative approach ensures zero solid waste, wastewater, and air pollution emissions, while also eliminating dust pollution. To date, DAS Solar has filed over 50 patents related to module recycling and holds 4 software copyrights.
As solar energy continues its rapid expansion as a clean, renewable energy source, PV recycling serves as the final step in the life cycle of solar technology, closing the loop within the circular economy. Looking ahead, DAS Solar will continue enhancing its green operation, establishing a comprehensive PV recycling ecosystem, and driving collaborative industry-wide efforts to accelerate the clean transition.