The International Energy Agency Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme has released a new report examining the technical, economic, and regulatory dimensions of second life photovoltaic modules. Titled Aspects of 2nd Life Photovoltaic Modules, the study provides a comprehensive overview of repair, refurbishment, and reuse strategies aimed at extending the operational lifespan of solar panels.
Drawing on laboratory research, pilot projects, and field experience, the report evaluates the conditions under which second life PV modules can contribute meaningfully to circular economy objectives. It concludes that while technical pathways exist, market and policy barriers continue to limit broader adoption.
Repair technically viable but commercially constrained
The report confirms that repair of PV modules is technically feasible across several common defect categories, including solder bond failures, cracked backsheets, and junction box faults. However, field data indicates that repair processes are often labour intensive, expensive, and challenging to scale under current market conditions.
Without automation and standardized procedures, repair operations struggle to compete with the rapidly declining cost of new PV modules. As a result, repair remains a niche activity rather than a mainstream commercial solution.
Testing and sorting emerge as scalable solution
According to the findings, testing and sorting based reuse strategies represent the most robust pathway for scaling second life PV deployment. Automated testing systems capable of IV characterization, electroluminescence imaging, and insulation resistance measurement enable efficient classification of modules into reuse, repair, or recycle streams.
This triage approach reduces labour costs, increases consistency, and supports transparency in product quality. The absence of harmonized qualification criteria and standardized testing protocols, however, continues to constrain trust and comparability in the second life market.
The report notes that the second life PV sector remains fragmented and underdeveloped, with limited alignment on repair guidelines or certification standards.
Pilot projects demonstrate energy and cost benefits
Evidence from pilot installations shows that second life PV systems can deliver measurable benefits. In some cases, systems have been paired with second life battery storage, enhancing energy autonomy, reducing emissions, and offering protection against electricity price volatility.
These demonstrations highlight the potential value proposition of reuse strategies, particularly in markets facing rising power costs or grid instability.
Economic and regulatory barriers remain decisive
Despite technical progress, economic viability remains the primary bottleneck. Second life modules must compete with increasingly affordable new products, placing pressure on margins and limiting private sector investment.
The report emphasizes that financial incentives, eco contributions, and supportive funding schemes will be essential to stimulate market development. Clear regulatory frameworks and circular economy mandates are also identified as central to scaling second life PV solutions.
Looking ahead, the study identifies design for repairability and improved bill of materials transparency as critical enablers. Future standards and eco design policies should promote component accessibility and replaceability, including junction boxes and diodes, while ensuring clearer documentation. Such measures would reduce uncertainty in testing and triage processes and improve the overall economics of repair and reuse.
For Africa’s fast growing solar markets, the findings provide timely insight into how circular strategies could strengthen energy resilience while reducing waste. However, as the report makes clear, unlocking the full potential of second life PV will require coordinated action across industry, regulators, and financiers.
Link to the full report HERE 
Author: Bryan Groenendaal

 






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