A Proactive Approach to the Recovery and Recycling of Photovoltaic Modules (APOLLO)

The APOLLO project is set to transform current inefficient PV waste recycling methods, which predominantly recover low-value materials, into a sustainable and cost-effective system. By efficiently reclaiming high-quality materials, the project aims to minimize environmental impact and support the creation of new PV modules. APOLLO's pilot line will handle 40 tonnes of PV waste to produce materials sufficient for one tonne of new silicon and thirty prototype modules. This initiative will employ innovative techniques to separate valuable materials like silicon and metals, implementing a closed-loop system to minimize waste and environmental footprint. By boosting material recovery rates from 18% to 93%, APOLLO intends to utilize the high-purity recycled materials to manufacture new ingots and modules, specifically designed for easier recycling. The project will also explore the recovery of high-purity perovskite in tandem Si/perovskite modules, advancing future PV technologies. Furthermore, APOLLO will introduce blockchain-enabled Digital Product Passports and an online marketplace, aiming to improve the efficiency and traceability of PV component recycling. Project value: 5 325 755.76 € Duration: 01/01/2024 – 31/12/2026 The project is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe Programme. Project No. 101122277