⚡ Quick Read
The global transition toward renewable energy has brought the issue of end-of-life management to the forefront of industrial policy. In France, the state-approved organization Soren has emerged as a leader in this space, recently reporting a significant milestone in its 2025 activity report. With the rapid deployment of photovoltaic systems over the last decade, the necessity for robust solar module recycling frameworks has transitioned from a niche environmental concern to a strategic industrial imperative.
During 2025, Soren successfully collected 13,760 tonnes of solar panels, representing a 40% increase compared to 2024. The organization, which works in tandem with specialized partners such as Envie 2E, Galloo, Rosi, RVE, and First Solar, achieved a recovery rate exceeding 90%. Of the 12,736 tonnes processed, 10,684 tonnes were fully recycled, while 1,298 tonnes underwent energy recovery, and 754 tonnes were sent for disposal.
The financial health of the initiative is supported by 600 member producers, whose eco-contributions generated €12 million ($13.8 million). Including revenue from the sale of recovered materials, the total budget reached €15.47 million. The organization currently maintains a strong financial position, with cash and provisions for future liabilities totaling €35.49 million by the end of 2025.
For EPC contractors and solar developers, the French experience highlights the future of project lifecycle management. As the demand for critical minerals like silicon, copper, and silver is expected to increase four- to sixfold by 2040, the circular economy will become central to supply chain security. Developers should anticipate stricter regulatory requirements regarding module disposal and potential mandates for participating in producer responsibility organizations similar to Soren.
The volume of decommissioned panels is expected to grow exponentially. Soren projects that by 2040, France will see 180,000 tonnes of panels reaching their end-of-life annually. This trajectory underscores the need for early investment in automated recycling technologies. Within the context of the India renewable energy sector, where massive utility-scale capacity is being added, establishing similar circular economy frameworks will be essential to ensure long-term sustainability and reduce reliance on virgin material imports.
Aditya Pathre is the Founder of MVApulse and covers India’s renewable energy sector, including solar, wind, battery energy storage systems (BESS), green hydrogen, transmission infrastructure, renewable energy policy and competitive bidding. His reporting focuses on project developments, market trends, government policies and energy transition across India.
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