Repurposing for Resilience

The waste from the growing solar industry will have a significant impact for landfills and it is costly to recycle solar components before their true end of life. The Repurposing for Resilience (RfR) initiative is part of grassroots social change seeking to eliminate the amount of solar equipment going to landfill and emphasise the efficient use of manufactured goods. The project works by responsibly segregating reclaimed solar equipment through a robust testing regime, sorting panels and components so they can either be reused, repurposed or recycled. Through direct community engagement programs, RfR will offer opportunity, materials, and financial incentive for the creative use of repurposed solar equipment.

The project provides direct access to affordable solar systems for not-for-profit community groups and local families, and creates new employment and training opportunities to encourage the creation of a second hand solar panel industry.  A successful RfR outcome would include influence on future policy regarding the reuse of panels and assistance of State and Federal governance and oversite bodies.

This solution effectively intercepts solar components before they reach landfill and encourages the reuse and repurposing of this discarded waste prior to heavy Industrial Materials Recycling. This results in direct cost savings to both the community and the environment by negating the need for expensive out of area recycling. The RfR provides a working model which will develop industry and consumer confidence in a second-hand market for solar components via a re-testing, recertification, and warranty regime. It also provides opportunity for low-income households to access affordable solar and provides an ideal platform for local artisans to sell their wares utilising the recycled equipment. This project provides a plethora of training, experience and employment opportunities for their small region in the vocations of electrical, renewables, basic construction, marketing and retail.