Nantong Riyixin Environmental Protection Technology. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_8d143ca1d114]

As the solar industry faces the challenge of managing the end-of-life phase of photovoltaic modules, Nantong Riyixin Environmental Protection Technology, located in the Rudong Economic Development Zone, has pioneered a sustainable solution.

In the company's production workshop, robotic arms carefully lift and place discarded PV modules onto a production line. Recyclable materials such as glass, aluminum, and silicon are efficiently recovered through a series of processes, including cleaning, separation, and screening.

"Our company's R&D team independently develops this production line," said Yin Jun, the company's deputy general manager. Yin emphasized that this disposal method effectively prevents the environmental pollution that could result from burning or landfilling waste PV modules.

PV modules, essential components of solar power plants, primarily comprise glass, cells, and aluminum frames. Many of these materials can be recycled. With a typical lifespan of around 25 years, a significant wave of PV module decommissioning is expected to begin in 2025. By 2030, China is projected to need to recycle 1.5 million metric tons of PV modules.

Recognizing this emerging market opportunity, Riyixin has focused on developing key technologies for recycling waste PV modules since 2014. The company successfully developed its first-generation equipment in 2019, securing relevant patents. Following further optimization, the upgraded equipment was completed in 2023.

Currently, Riyixin's new production line is distinguished by its low energy consumption and minimal secondary pollution. With the capacity to recycle 15,000 tons of various renewable resources annually, the company leads the industry in both production scale and environmental sustainability.