Circular Economy in the solar sector

CE-Hub, 2024

The UK solar industry has grown rapidly, reaching 14.65 GW of power capacity by the end of 2022, supporting 11,500 jobs, and contributing £3.577 billion in turnover. However, this success brings environmental concerns, with over 800,000 tonnes of materials embedded in solar installations by the end of 2023, potentially creating significant waste in the future.

To meet the UK’s Net Zero goals and reach 70 GW solar capacity by 2035, a shift towards a circular economy is essential. This involves redesigning products, sourcing sustainable materials, extending product life through repair, and prioritising closed-loop recycling at the end of life.

Embracing circular economy principles would offer the UK solar sector key benefits, such as improving resource security by prioritising the reuse and recycling of materials within the UK, reducing dependence on volatile global supply chains, unlocking billions in material value, and enhancing supply chain resilience. Additionally, transitioning to a circular economy could spur economic growth by creating new jobs and boosting businesses focused on repair, refurbishment, and recycling.

In conclusion, the report highlights that a circular economy presents a viable solution to the systemic challenges faced by the UK solar sector. However, transitioning to a circular solar industry requires collaborative and forward-thinking efforts from all stakeholders across the value chain. Acting as an initial assessment, the report pinpoints key challenges and opportunities, offering recommendations to drive sustainable innovation and tackle the systemic issues that will shape the future of solar energy in the UK.

Please download the full report from the link below. Consider joining the official launch event—Pioneering Circularity in the UK Solar Sector—on Wednesday 16th October, 12.00-13.00. Details are available here.