Report on second-life photovoltaic modules for a circular economy

A person is inspecting a solar panel
Photo by Silvana Ovaitt
Ph.D. student Rich Strömberg uses a laser for fine focus while performing nighttime field electroluminescence imaging to inspect for silicon cell cracks in solar panels at an array in Colorado.

February 24, 2026

Rich Strömberg, a UAF Ph.D. student and an ACEP affiliate, is a co-author of a newly released report titled “Performance and Reliability Aspects of 2nd Life Photovoltaic Modules.”

The report provides a technical overview of repair, refurbishment and reuse strategies to extend the operational life of photovoltaic, or PV, modules. It assesses the technical, economic and regulatory conditions to see how second-life PV modules can contribute to a circular economy — a system that keeps products and materials in use for as long as possible, minimizing waste and pollution.

The report is based on laboratory research, pilot projects and field experience and is the result of an effort by Task 13, part of the International Energy Agency’s Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme. Task 13 supports improving the operation, reliability and quality of PV components and systems.

.