Solar panels: new cleaning guidance and recycling method unveiled

Regular maintenance is essential for photovoltaic installations, and experts warn that cleaning panels with tap water is ineffective. Proper cleaning steps and best practices are recommended to preserve energy output.

Researchers at New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering have proposed an innovative hydrometallurgical recycling process for end‑of‑life solar panels. The method dissolves critical metals such as silver, indium, gallium, tellurium and lead in liquid solvents, allowing selective recovery with lower energy consumption than traditional pyrometallurgy. The authors argue that this approach could reduce landfill disposal, improve supply‑chain security for renewable‑technology metals, and offer a more economically attractive recycling route.