Queensland Government invests $3.6 million in initiative to recycle solar panels

Over 20 projects are being built in the state, whilst another 170 are in the pipeline.

The government of Queensland in Australia has announced nearly $3.6m (A$5.5m) funding for the pilot of a solar panel recycling pilot.

In a statement, the Queensland government said around $1.6m (A$2.5m) is allocated to ensuring that residential solar panels will avoid landfill and are re-purposed for parts.

Almost $2m ($3m), meanwhile, will be dedicated to delivering Queensland Renewable Energy Industry Association Grants, allotted to the Smart Energy Council, the Queensland Renewable Energy Council and the Clean Energy Council.

“Not only is today’s announcement about saving solar panels from landfill, but importantly, it means creating opportunity for jobs and economic growth in Queensland,” Minister for Energy Mick de Brenni said.

“With up to five locations in metro and regional Queensland set to host the pilot, we expect to see a significant uplift in opportunity to create new jobs in recovery and processing activities,” he added.