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A Circular Economy for Solar Photovoltaic System Materials: Drivers, Barriers, Enablers, and U.S. Policy Considerations

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The article emphasizes the pivotal role of solar photovoltaics (PV) in the shift towards a zero-carbon energy system in the United States, citing substantial growth in PV installations driven by emissions reduction policies and grid resilience improvements. By the end of 2020, the U.S. had amassed over 95 GWdc of PV capacity, with expectations of exceeding 202 GWdc by 2025. However, the rapid PV growth has led to supply chain vulnerabilities and environmental concerns, with the U.S. losing global market share in PV manufacturing. Import dependence and the need for mining virgin materials for PV products are challenges, alongside the mounting volume of retired PV modules and balance of system equipment. The article explores the drivers, barriers, and enablers in creating a circular economy for PV materials, pointing to market opportunities, job creation, and environmental benefits as incentives for investing in PV equipment repair, reuse, and recycling. Barriers include a lack of standardized testing, limited infrastructure for repair and recycling, and high recycling costs. Enablers encompass government-funded research, incentives, and mandates. The article also assesses legal requirements for PV equipment use, recycling, and disposal and examines the associated legal liabilities for non-compliance. It presents case studies of business models in the solar industry, such as First Solar, Good Sun, and Recycle PV Solar, that promote a circular economy for PV system equipment. The report's methodology combines legal and literature research with expert interviews, aiming to inform decision-makers about the PV industry's regulatory and policy landscape without endorsing specific policy mechanisms.

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