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Can Europe recover its photovoltaic manufacturing capacity?   PDF   The value chain of crystalline silicon photovoltaic module manufacture, from silicon to wafers to cells and modules, shows the share of production in different countries (comparing the years 2010 and 2021). Recycling and recovery of materials from PV modules at the end-of-life is an industry at its initial stages.

Europe has seen its photovoltaic module production capacity fall from 40% in 2008 to 2% in 2023, whilst China dominates the market with a 86% share. To revive its industry, Europe must invest in emerging technologies and develop efficient recycling processes for end-of-life modules.

Evolution of cumulative installed photovoltaic capacity (2010 - 2021, in GW) anmd the milestown achieved in 2022 by surpassing 1TW.                     Increasing the sustainability of photovoltaic technologies  PDF    

​             The article highlights the need to improve the sustainability of photovoltaic technologies, given the projected growth in installed capacity: it reached 1 TW in 2022 and is expected to reach 5 TW by 2030. It emphasises the importance of improving the mechanical and optical properties of the glass and plastics used in the manufacture of solar modules, to extend their service life and facilitate their recycling at the end of their life cycle.

The ‘glass route’ for improving the sustainability of photovoltaic technology  PDF  

The article explains how the ION4PV project is improving the sustainability of photovoltaic technology through innovations in the glass used in solar panels. Materials such as bismuth oxide and potassium ions are incorporated, improving durability and reducing potential-induced degradation. These improvements contribute to greater efficiency and a longer service life for solar modules. Furthermore, they facilitate the recycling of components at the end of their life cycle. Taken together, these solutions drive more sustainable and efficient solar production.

Vídeo preparado por Alejandro Medel Arrogante, estudiante de prácticas en en el contexto del proyecto ION4PV.