U.S., Swiss Firms Join Forces to Reclaim PV Waste

Companies combining efforts to handle photovoltaic scrap.

pv recycling LLC, based in Tempe, Ariz., and ENCROS, based in Switzerland, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop collection and recycling systems in both North America and Europe for photovoltaic scrap.

pv recycling claims that it is the only independent recycler of photovoltaic module scrap in the United States.

Under terms of the agreement, ENCROS will develop, test, and operate recycling technologies, while pv recycling will implement and manage areas related to administration, logistics and regulatory compliance. Together, the two companies will co-market their services to companies in the solar supply chain. The initial focus will be on solar panel manufacturers selling products in North America and Europe.

"We are pleased about this collaboration with ENCROS," says Jennifer Woolwich, CEO of pv recycling. "It enables us to better meet the needs of our multinational customers, gain access to overseas markets, and also contribute to environmentally sustainable economic development in the U.S."

Sebastian Kernbaum, partner of ENCROS, agrees that the co-operation of these two entities complement one another. "The relationship combines two necessary components to address this part of the value chain, and reclaim material in an effective and efficient manner."