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SOLMATE is an innovative project with a strong focus on creating a circular economy for photovoltaic (PV) modules and electric vehicle (EV) batteries. By reusing these applications within low-cost decentralised energy systems, SOLMATE aims to reduce waste, save resources and create value for various stakeholders.

One of the main objectives of SOLMATE is to develop business plans for the reuse of second life PV modules and EV batteries in specific demonstrators.

• Decentralised energy for AgriPV systems, providing sustainable technologies for the electrification of farms.
• Plug-in PV using second life components [PV modules and EV batteries] to create plug and play kits that can be easily installed and deployed, providing clean and affordable energy for domestic use.
• Decentralised energy for low-income communities using second life PV modules and EV batteries to provide access to affordable electricity.

For each of these demonstrators, SOLMATE will offer specifications and designs for components and systems, considering technical, economic, and environmental factors related to the reuse of PV modules and EV batteries. The project will also identify and quantify the relevant parameters and limiting factors for the reuse of components. Finally, based on this analysis, SOLMATE will provide guidance for optimising the costs and benefits of the final solution, potentially evaluating them in comparison with other business cases.

The first step, undertaken by partner SOREN, is to identify available PV plants to be dismantled. In the framework contract with PV plant operators, SOREN commits to deliver PV modules to CEA and CERTISOLIS for further characterisation. The latter partners will test all modules for safety reasons and perform the sampling with dedicated sets of tests to evaluate their performance.

Recently having performed the visual inspection on a first batch of twelve pallets of PV modules, CEA highlighted already in the early stages the necessity to involve PV operators in the circular economy process. As shown in the first picture, the packaging was inadequate for safe transport, which damaged the bottom three to four PV modules and impeded their inclusion in the characterisation phase.

PV modules pallets after transportation

This first batch of dismantled PV modules was primarily intended for recycling purposes, without considering the reusing option. Due to cost considerations, the current dismantling process has been precarious. Additionally, the first evaluation showed that 90 % of the delivered PV modules have at least one cut cable, rendering them unsuitable for immediate reuse.

Junction box with one cut cable

Despite the disappointment of the results of this initial visual inspection, the conclusions drawn underline the need for more awareness and pedagogy among the partners involved in the dismantling and transportation of modules, which will improve the quality and efficiency of the reuse process.

More information will be provided in the coming months and disseminated in our biannual newsletter.

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© visuals: CEA