In a landmark move, the Queensland government has unveiled a pioneering initiative to revolutionise the recycling of solar panels within the state.
With an investment of almost $5.5 million, this program aims to ensure that thousands of solar panels on homes, businesses, and solar farms across the state are recycled and repurposed instead of ending up in landfills.
The funding includes $2.5 million dedicated to repurposing residential solar panels for parts, thereby enhancing opportunities for regional communities to benefit directly from renewable energy solutions.
Additionally, the solar panel recovery pilot will gather crucial data to inform the development of a national product stewardship scheme, identifying any gaps in Queensland’s recovery and processing capacities.
Furthermore, the government has allocated almost $3 million for the Queensland Renewable Energy Industry Association Grants, benefiting organisations like the Smart Energy Council (SEC), the Queensland Renewable Energy Council (QREC), and the Clean Energy Council (CEC).
These grants will support the growth of the large-scale renewable energy industry, including backing solar panel recycling programs, supporting landholders, organising career fairs in regional areas, assisting local councils, and engaging communities.
QLD Minister for Energy Mick de Brenni emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating: “Not only is [this] announcement about saving solar panels from landfill, but importantly, it means creating opportunity for jobs and economic growth in Queensland.”
He highlighted the expected increase in job opportunities in recovery and processing activities, particularly in regional areas.
QLD Environment Minister Leanne Linard expressed her optimism about the pilot program and stated: “The solar panel recovery pilot will identify the best path forward in recycling solar panels once they have reached their end of life or have become damaged.”
She praised the industry and local councils for their enthusiasm to participate in the program, particularly highlighting the excitement in regional Queensland.
The Smart Energy Council Chief Executive John Grimes said: “Queensland is the only state in Australia to have a plan for the recycling and stewardship of residential, commercial, and large-scale solar panels.”
The state currently has more than 20 renewable projects underway and another 170 in the pipeline.
