The project partners of SOPHIA gathered on 26 June 2025 in Valencia (Spain) to kick-off this Horizon Europe project. ...
What is SOPHIA?
The SOPHIA project - Implementation of Advanced Digital Solutions to increase the circularity of PV panels throughout the full value chain – is an EU-funded Horizon Europe project that aims to implement Advanced Digital Solutions in end-of-life PV panels, involving the full value chain in order to increase their current reuse, repair and recycling rates.
Why PV Panels?
Solar energy is a key driver of the global renewable transition. PV panel installations in the EU are growing rapidly, and so is their waste. By 2030, PV waste could reach 1.7–1.8 million tonnes, and by 2050, up to 60–78 million tonnes.
Objectives
Develop a prototype for a fast and efficient evaluation of PV panels state-of-health including black areas and main damage, based on an AI model.
Improve the reparation of PV panels which can keep efficiency >80% using robot-assisted equipment and high-performance dielectric varnish.
Promote the use of recycling innovative technologies to maximize the separation of their main components, such as glass, silicon & metals and plastics.
Develop a prototype for a new eco-designed and easy dismantling PV panel using tailor-made debonding on-demand adhesives.
Create a digital platform to implement Digital Product Passport (DPP) in new and repaired PV panels and to trace current panels without DPP.
Foster the development of the market for secondary raw materials through their increased availability and the creation of a specific marketplace.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program under grant agreement N°101182162.
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