Singapore’s Solar Future Gets a Greener Upgrade with First Solar Panel Recycling Facility by SolaREV

circular connection
6 days ago
2 min read

A solar panel’s end-of-life is no longer the end of the line, thanks to Project SolaREV’s circular innovation.

Person in plaid shirt adjusting solar panel outdoors under clear blue sky, reflecting sunlight. Focus on hands on shiny surface.

Image: Freepik/senivpetro

Singapore is on track to generate more solar e-waste than ever as early solar installations begin to reach the end of their usable life. In response, local recycling company Redux has launched the country’s first advanced automated solar panel recycling facility, ushering in a new chapter for circular solutions in clean energy.

Forecast chart for Singapore's solar panel waste from 2025-2030. Highlights recycling capacity and a 27% waste reduction in 2025. Green theme.

Image: Redux

The project, named SolaREV, is a collaboration between Redux, EtaVolt, and Vector Green. This integrated system is designed to recover up to 96% of each decommissioned solar panel, including glass, silver, and key metals. With the capability to process up to 36,000 panels a year, the new facility captures 27% of Singapore’s forecasted PV waste for 2025 and helps prevent an estimated 1,501 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

Flowchart titled "Sustainable Solar Panel Recycling" showing steps from decommissioning to carbon impact report, with green icons and text.

Image: Redux

Unlike conventional disposal, SolaREV’s solar panel recycling process begins with deframing and shredding, followed by precision mechanical separation to ensure materials are recycled efficiently. Detailed carbon impact reports and recycling certificates complete the loop, offering both transparency and measurable sustainability value.

Flowchart titled "From Waste to Worth" shows six stages: Deframe, Shred, Crush, Vibration, Air Flow Separate, Dust Collection. Green background.

Image: Redux

Project SolaREV not only reduces waste from reaching landfills but also aligns with the Singapore Green Plan 2030. As solar adoption grows, this recycling initiative ensures that the nation’s clean energy ambitions remain truly sustainable.

Industrial recycling machine with green and gray components on a platform. Includes conveyor belts and large white bags, no visible text.

Image: Redux

Highlights from Project SolaREV’s Solar Panel Recycling Efforts

Solar panels in Singapore degrade faster due to lack of maintenance, often replaced after 7 years
The new facility uses just 1.14 kWh of electricity per panel, powered by solar
Up to 96% of each processed solar panel are recovered for reuse
Able to process 27% of forecasted PV waste in 2025, with 820 tons recycled annually
Part of Project SolaREV, supported by Redux, EtaVolt and Vector Green