AGC Glass Europe, part of the global AGC Group and a leader in flat glass production, and Rosi, a pioneer in the recycling of valuable raw materials from the photovoltaic industry, have entered into a strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to advance the circular economy by combining AGC Glass Europe's expertise in glass manufacturing and Rosi's innovative technology for recovering materials from end-of-life photovoltaic modules. Both companies are committed to establishing more sustainable production methods that contribute to a low-carbon future.
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The agreement was signed in September in Saint Honoré (France). Itochu, a major investor in Rosi, was also present at the signing. The partnership is a significant step towards a sustainable value chain for flat glass and photovoltaics.
Photovoltaic panels are made of 70% glass, which gives them enormous potential as a source of raw materials for the glass industry. Glass recycling requires 25% less energy than new glass production, while also reducing environmental pollution. Through this partnership, AGC Glass Europe and Rosi will recycle large quantities of photovoltaic glass and reuse it for flat glass production. This will not only reduce the demand for new raw materials, but also minimise the environmental footprint of solar panels at the end of their service life.
Significant environmental benefits
Marc Foguenne, Vice President of Sustainability at AGC Glass Europe, emphasises: ‘We are taking an important step towards our sustainability goals of reducing Scope 1, 2 and 3 CO2 emissions by 30% by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2050. Photovoltaic glass offers a valuable source of recycled material, but its composition is different from our standard products, requiring technological innovation. This is where Rosi comes in as our technical partner.’
The use of recycled glass offers significant environmental benefits. 1 tonne of recycled glass saves 0.7 tonnes of CO2 and 1.2 tonnes of virgin raw materials. Initial tests on the use of glass scraps from photovoltaic modules in flat glass production have shown that the quality and performance of the end products are not affected. This could pave the way for standardisation of the use of recycled glass at AGC.
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Yun Luo, President of Rosi, commented: ‘This partnership is a milestone in our mission to recycle and reuse valuable raw materials from the photovoltaic industry. We are delighted to be working with AGC Glass Europe to create a more sustainable future for both industries’.
About AGC Glass Europe
AGC Glass Europe, part of the AGC Group, is a leading manufacturer of flat glass for the building industry (façade glazing, interior design), the automotive industry and industrial applications (transport, solar technology, high-tech). www.agc-yourglass.com
About Rosi
Rosi specialises in the recycling and reprocessing of high-quality raw materials from photovoltaic modules. The company is committed to promoting the circular economy and transforms PV waste into valuable resources such as glass, silicon, copper, aluminium and silver. www.rosi-solar.com
About Itochu Corporation
Founded in 1858, Itochu Corporation is one of Japan's leading trading companies. Its activities include the production of renewable energies, electricity trading, and the photovoltaic, battery and biomass industries. Itochu sells solar modules worldwide and develops large-scale solar plants. www.itochu.co.jp
