Project
SOPHIA
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Implementation of Advanced Digital Solutions to increase the circularity of PV panels throughout the full value chain.
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SOPHIA addresses the problem of photovoltaic (PV) panels end-of-life, their management and the society awareness on electronic waste management to increase their current reuse, repair and recycling rates. SOPHIA implements several advanced digital solutions, such as an AI model for evaluating the PV state-of-health, digital traceability through the Digital Product Passport, a marketplace for secondary raw materials and eco-designed PV prototypes.
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Through this three-year project, 15 partners from eight countries covering the PV panels value-chain will work together to increase social and corporate awareness about the PV panels’ production impact, aiming towards a fully sustainable PV industry, as well as to create new markets around the PV sector across Europe.
Why PV panels?
Solar energy has become a crucial element of global renewable energy initiatives . It is one of the renewable energy sources with a relatively long-life span, which is estimated to be at least 30 years . In recent years, the capacity of installed PV panels has grown exponentially, and its capacity is expected to further increase due to the decarbonization of the economy and the promotion of renewable energy generation by the countries. As the installation of PV systems grows, so does the generation of waste. By 2030, the generation of this type of waste could reach 1.7-1.8 Mt and by 2050 near to 60-78 Mt .
In line with the EU circular and climate policy
Through the development of innovative solutions to boost PV panels circularity, SOPHIA will contribute to fostering a more circular, innovative and competitive Europe and the project results are expected to contribute with evidence to support policymaking.
- Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive: contributing to improving the collection, treatment and recycling of PV equipment at the end-of-life, increasing resource efficiency and supporting the shift to a circular economy.
- Critical Raw Materials Act: contributing to the security of supply for critical raw materials that are used in PV panels such as silicon, silver, and indium and ultimately enhancing the EU’s strategic autonomy.
- Circular Economy Act: to be developed and adopted as part of the Clean Industrial Deal, promoting recycling, reuse, and sustainable production and reducing overdependencies on third-country suppliers for raw materials.
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