The Solar Energy Association of Ukraine (SEAU) has joined the European scientific and innovation project RETRIEVE (Reintegration of Photovoltaic Panel Waste Back into Manufacturing as High-Value Products), implemented under the EU’s Horizon Europe framework programme.
The project aims to create a closed-loop recycling system for photovoltaic modules. RETRIEVE focuses on developing technologies for glass reuse, silicon purification, silver and other metal recovery, and polymer recycling. This will make it possible to transform waste into valuable raw materials for modern photovoltaic modules, reduce the negative environmental impact, and enhance resource independence.
For SEAU, participation in the project is an opportunity to represent the Ukrainian solar energy sector at the European level, contribute to cutting-edge technological solutions, and support the implementation of circular economy principles in the energy sector.
Within the RETRIEVE project, SEAU focuses on:
- conducting market analysis;
- identifying legal barriers to the implementation of circular solutions in energy;
- preparing analyses and proposals for regulatory acts on the recycling and reuse of solar panels;
- preparing recommendations for adapting Ukrainian legislation to EU requirements;
- developing policy roadmaps for solar panel recycling and reuse;
- facilitating knowledge exchange and the adoption of innovative technologies;
- fostering cooperation among scientific, industrial, and civil society organizations to advance the transition to a circular economy in renewable energy;
- disseminating project results among Ukrainian and European stakeholders.
The RETRIEVE consortium, formed to implement the project, includes SEAU and 16 partners from 10 countries – leading research organizations, scientific centers, industrial companies, and industry associations from Norway, Germany, Spain, France, Lithuania, Türkiye, Belgium, Switzerland, Romania, and Ukraine.
SEAU welcomes all members of the consortium. We are delighted to be part of the European expert community working to implement innovative renewable energy solutions. For SEAU members and the entire solar community, participation in this project opens new opportunities for collaboration, fosters knowledge and experience sharing, and enhances Ukraine’s role in the European energy space. Together, we can achieve the goals of RETRIEVE!
We invite our partners, companies, and experts to join this initiative together with SEAU and collaborate on developing circular solutions for the future of energy.
Learn more about the RETRIEVE project: www.retrieveproject.eu
Funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.