When SolargeInternational B.V. set out to design solar panels for the circular economy, thegoal was ambitious: combine high-performance photovoltaic technology with aproduct concept that keeps materials in use for as long as possible. Today,that ambition has become reality.
Solarge’s Solo M10 andSolo M10 Ultra Low Carbon solar panels have achieved Cradle to CradleCertified® Circularity at the Bronze level under Version 4.1, a milestone thatmarks two industry firsts. These panels are the first solar products certifiedunder the Circularity program and the first to meet the rigorous requirementsof Version 4.1.
Why This Matters
Solar energy is acornerstone of the global energy transition, but the question of what happensto panels after their use phase has long been unresolved. Complex materialcompositions and limited recycling options have made circularity difficult toachieve. Solarge’s certification demonstrates that this challenge can beovercome and sets a new benchmark for the industry.
What Makes Solo M10Different
The Solo M10 panelsare designed with both performance and circularity in mind. By replacingconventional glass with strong polymer-based materials, Solarge created alightweight module weighing just 14.5 kg. This reduces structural load onrooftops, lowers transport emissions, and simplifies installation, ideal forcommercial and logistics facilities.
The panels deliver up to 525 Wp with efficiencies of 19.7%, backed by a 16-yearproduct warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. They are designed and manufactured without theintentional use of PFAS, comply withRoHS and REACH, and are engineered for technical cycling. Reversible connectorsallow clean disassembly, and defined recycling pathways ensure valuablematerials such as silicon, silver, copper, and polymers are recovered throughpartners like ROSI, SABIC, and Mirec B.V.
The Journey toCertification
Achieving Cradle toCradle Certified® Circularity required a detailed review of materials, productdesign, and end-of-use strategies. As the official Assessment Body for Cradleto Cradle Certified® products, EPEA Benelux guided Solarge through this process.
One of the main challenges was the complexity of the product type, involvingnumerous components and suppliers. Gathering documentation demanded closecollaboration and robust data management. What made the process successful wasSolarge’s clear understanding of the certification requirements, swiftresponsiveness, and transparent communication, combined with a strong level ofambition.