China’s first large-scale intelligent containerized photovoltaic (PV) module recycling demonstration line has officially begun operations in Jianli, Jingzhou, Hubei Province. Developed by CECEP Solar Energy Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group (CECEP), the facility marks a significant step in advancing green and efficient solar panel recycling.
With the global solar industry booming and retired PV modules increasing, the demand for efficient recycling solutions is growing rapidly. Gou Xianfang, head of Technology Development at CECEP Solar Energy, cited industry forecasts predicting that global PV module retirements will exceed 8 million tons by 2030, surging to over 78 million tons by 2050.
To address low recycling efficiency, high costs, and environmental concerns, CECEP Solar Energy leveraged its expertise in PV manufacturing and solar power plant operations to develop China’s first mobile, containerized PV module recycling system in collaboration with industry partners. Unlike traditional recycling facilities, this modular system functions as a flexible, on-site processing unit, capable of being quickly deployed to different project locations. It allows for on-site recovery of glass, aluminum frames, and junction boxes, significantly reducing transportation costs and improving efficiency.
The demonstration line can disassemble 60 PV modules per hour, with recovered aluminum frames and glass achieving over 99% purity. The entire process—from module feeding to material recovery—is fully automated, setting a new industry standard. Additionally, the system is designed with soundproofing and dust removal technology, ensuring zero wastewater and zero air emissions. This cost-effective, scalable, and environmentally friendly approach provides a sustainable solution for the growing challenge of PV module disposal.
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