SOLAR MATERIALS is a German cleantech company specializing in the recycling of end-of-life solar panels. Through its own mechanical recycling process, SOLAR MATERIALS tackles the growing volume of end-of-life solar panels by recovering valuable materials with an industrial-scale solution that is efficient, scalable, and sustainable.

SOLAR MATERIALS operates a fully automated, mechanical recycling process that recovers all materials. Glass, aluminum, plastics, and critical raw materials including silicon and silver are returned in high purity and can be reused in industrial applications. Compared to primary raw materials, the process reduces energy consumption by up to 95 % and CO₂ emissions by up to 80 %.

SOLAR MATERIALS processes 14,000 tons of solar panels per year at its facility in Magdeburg, Germany. The recycling lines can be rapidly deployed wherever the demand for PV recycling is highest. The next planned expansion is in Italy, reflecting the company’s strategy to provide solutions wherever end-of-life solar panels create the greatest environmental and logistical challenges.

By closing material loops and minimizing waste, SOLAR MATERIALS contributes to a circular solar economy and reduces dependence on primary resources.