Groundbreaking solar panel recycling pilot launched

A man installs a solar panel on a rooftop
Queensland Government aiming to set a national standard for sustainability.
Queensland Government (Department of Energy and Climate)

Redlands is one of six Queensland areas to participate in a pioneering solar panel recycling initiative, in collaboration with the Smart Energy Council, aiming to set a national standard for sustainability.

The Queensland Government program aims to enhance solar panel recycling across Queensland and boost industry-community engagement.

The six initial collection sites include Capalaba, North Lakes, Gold Coast, Rockhampton, Toowoomba, and Townsville, with more locations to follow.

The initiative, funded by nearly $5.5 million from the Queensland Government’s Recycling and Jobs Fund and the Queensland Renewable Energy Industry Association Grant, will test the feasibility of collecting, reusing, and recycling solar panels from residential, commercial, and solar farm sources to reduce landfill. The solar panel recovery pilot will provide benefits for small and large scale installations, with information from the pilot helping inform development of a solar panel stewardship scheme.

The initiative positions Queensland at the forefront of renewable energy recycling.