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Ready today for tomorrow: The industry standard for photovoltaic recycling
Together with Swissolar, SENS eRecycling ensures the environmentally sound disposal of end-of-life PV modules – free of charge, nationwide, and future-proof. Those who join today are one step ahead tomorrow.
As a SENS eRecycling partner, you can dispose of your PV modules free of charge and in an environmentally friendly manner thanks to the advance recycling contribution (ARC).
200+
Partner companies nationwide
Since 2013
the industry solution exists
100 %
of costs are financed by the ARC
A head start through foresight
Photovoltaic systems have a long lifespan. But eventually, modules are replaced, dismantled or damaged. The question then arises: Who takes care of professional and environmentally sound recycling? The industry solution from SENS eRecycling provides you with a clear answer today – before the question even comes up.
Your advantages as an installer
Future security
Recycling obligations are regulated in advance.
No effort
We organise collection, transport and professional recycling.
No costs
Disposal is financed via the advance recycling contribution (ARC).
Industry standard
Supported by manufacturers, importers and the industry association.
Nationwide solution
We organise collection directly from the construction site – anywhere in Switzerland.
Credibility
You demonstrate responsibility towards customers and the environment.
Recycling already financed
The SENS recycling system is based on a simple and proven principle: When purchasing a photovoltaic system, an advance recycling contribution (ARC) is levied. This finances the subsequent collection, transport and recycling of the modules. For you as an installer, this means: If the ARC is paid, recycling is taken care of.
How it works
Small quantities of PV modules can be returned free of charge and without prior notice to the nearest SENS eRecycling collection point. For larger quantities starting from one pallet, there are two options: return after prior notice to the SENS collection point, or SENS eRecycling collects the modules directly from the construction site and brings them to a specialised recycling company.
Documents for download
Frequently Asked Questions
How does SENS eRecycling finance the proper disposal of PV modules?
The disposal is financed by the advance recycling contribution (ARC) that end customers pay when purchasing PV modules. This contribution is paid to SENS eRecycling via manufacturers and installers. SENS coordinates the proper disposal and compensates collection points, transporters, and recyclers. The service is free of charge for installers – the ARC covers all the costs.
Why is the ARC on PV modules so low?
In the SENS recycling system, the disposal is funded through a pay-as-you-go system. The financing of the system therefore only works as the current volumes of installed photovoltaic systems continue to outweigh by far the volume of spent materials and therefore allow the fund to continue to grow from year to year.
How do I become a SENS partner?
You can easily register here as a new customer.
How does the collection system work?
As soon as you are registered as a SENS partner, you can place collection orders in our SENS portal. A transporter collects the PV modules directly from you or at the place of disassembly – a straightforward process available throughout Switzerland. Alternatively, spent PV modules can be handed in free of charge at one of over 630 SENS collection points.
What is the minimum collection quantity?
The minimum amount for which you can place a collection order in the SENS online portal is one pallet. Smaller quantities can be returned at any SENS collection point. If you would like to take larger quantities to a collection point yourself, please contact the collection point in advance to ensure it has sufficient storage capacity.
How must the PV modules be prepared for collection?
The PV modules must be palletised flat on a base that is suitable for the corresponding weight. Detailed information can be found in the information leaflet or in this article.
Can the PV modules be thrown off the roof?
No. For recycling purposes, the PV modules should be as intact as possible. This ensures the maximum amount of recyclable materials can be recovered.
Can photovoltaic modules be transported as bulk goods?
No. The PV modules must be delivered as described in the information leaflet. This enables efficient and safe transport.
Why can’t I create a collection order as a private individual?
The installation and removal of photovoltaic modules should always be carried out by a professional. For this reason, only installers and manufacturers can become SENS partners and make use of the industry solution. As a private individual, you have the option to drop off your PV modules at a collection point.
Where are the PV modules recycled?
The photovoltaic modules are recycled in neighbouring countries, in Germany and France. This is because the volumes in Switzerland are currently too low to justify a specialised system. The abrasive glass requires special processing techniques. The PV modules are therefore collected by Swiss partners and taken abroad for further processing. The modules are handed over exclusively to certified recycling companies that hold a SENS licence and are subject to regular inspections.
What recyclable materials can be recovered?
Around 80% of the materials contained in PV modules can currently be reused. In the recycling process, glass in particular is recovered as a high-quality main component and processed for new applications. Other valuable materials such as aluminium, copper, iron, silver and silicon are also almost completely extracted and returned to the raw material cycle – for example, in smelting plants or as a basis for new products.
Which importers are connected to the industry solution?
You will find here a list of all ARC partners affiliated with SENS eRecycling.
I want to pass on used but still functional PV modules. Are there already any opportunities for reuse?
SENS eRecycling is responsible solely for the recycling of solar panels. Other providers, such as SecondSol provide solutions for the reuse market.