Solar panels with recycled glass offer high-performance, work like new

A recent study by solar recycling firm SOLARCYCLE in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU) has demonstrated that solar panels made with a 50/50 mix of recycled and new glass perform just as well as those made entirely from new glass. The prototype "mini modules" showed no statistically significant difference in power-conversion efficiency or overall performance compared to control panels composed solely of virgin materials. This research, led by ASU’s Dr. Zachary Holman and fabricated by researcher Kate Fisher, used recycled glass cullet sourced from end-of-life panels processed through SOLARCYCLE’s proprietary technology, validating the feasibility of sustainable solar panel manufacturing without compromising quality. This breakthrough supports SOLARCYCLE’s mission to establish a closed-loop, domestic supply chain for solar panel production, reducing waste and enhancing industry sustainability. Building on these findings, SOLARCYCLE plans to open a pioneering solar glass factory in Cedartown, Georgia, which will utilize recycled glass cullet as a primary input. The company also aims