ENGIE North America has announced a new initiative to include solar panel recycling directly in power purchase agreements (PPAs) for four upcoming projects. This pilot program is part of ENGIE’s growing focus on circularity and sustainability. The company developed this innovative approach in partnership with recycling firm SOLARCYCLE.
The new “precycling” provision requires recycling of solar panels and project components right from the start of the project lifecycle. This approach helps developers plan for the end-of-life recycling of materials when the panels reach the end of their useful life. It is particularly important for energy buyers aiming to meet circularity and sustainability targets.
Under these agreements, about one million solar panels from 375 megawatts of projects in the Midwest will be recycled after their lifespan ends. This effort supports full circularity by keeping materials in use rather than sending them to landfill. SOLARCYCLE estimates this will divert 48 million pounds of waste from landfills and prevent approximately 33,000 tons of carbon emissions. Additionally, as much construction waste and system parts as possible will be recycled.
Caroline Mead, Senior Vice President of Power Marketing at ENGIE North America, said, “We are excited to launch this innovative approach. Our work with SOLARCYCLE shows our shared commitment to building a more sustainable energy industry.”
With the rising demand for electricity in the U.S., clean and domestic energy sources are critical. The partnership between ENGIE and SOLARCYCLE ensures full tracking of solar panels and components, meeting circularity goals and returning recycled materials back into the domestic supply chain. This will help produce the next generation of clean energy materials.
Jesse Simons, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of SOLARCYCLE, added, “ENGIE’s precycling provision sets a new standard for large-scale solar projects. It shows circular economy goals can be reached without complex regulations or upfront costs. We’re proud to support leaders like ENGIE in advancing circularity and sustainability in the energy sector.”
