The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has released a new roadmap to promote circular economy principles across the US solar and storage sector.
The plan sets out a vision to manage the growing volume of clean energy equipment reaching the end of its service life, while fostering economic and environmental benefits.
Titled “A Vision for Implementing the Circular Economy in the Solar and Storage Industry,” the roadmap outlines how the sector can reduce waste, improve supply chain resilience, and extend the lifespan of solar and storage products.
Abigail Ross Hopper, SEIA president and CEO, explained:
“As the industry continues to expand, it’s important that we implement strategies that extend the life of our products while reducing waste to unlock economic opportunities and a healthier environment. That’s what the circular economy is all about.”
“This roadmap outlines the everyday solutions for turning our vision into reality – by providing a concrete action plan to develop national standards, create demand for recovered and recycled materials, and reduce waste in landfills.”
The circular economy approach seeks to decouple economic growth from raw material use, aiming to make the industry more sustainable and cost-efficient. By recovering valuable materials and supporting reuse, the initiative also aims to enhance US energy security and bolster local economies.
The roadmap includes a wide-ranging action plan, which involves developing national recycling and decommissioning standards, providing support to manufacturers, creating guidelines for recycling facilities, and convening a dedicated industry sustainability conference.
It also calls for policies that make resource recovery more accessible than landfill disposal.
A timeline for implementation is included, with key standards expected by 2026. SEIA plans to collaborate with industry stakeholders, all levels of government, academia, and other partners to execute the strategy.
The full roadmap is available at www.seia.org/circulareconomy.
