About us

This research theme will establish a roadmap for future research, innovation, and impact projects to inform end-of-renewable asset life decisions. First-generation renewable assets are already reaching end of life, with some going to landfill. There is a significant knowledge gap around decommissioning and circular economy solutions, and an integrated understanding of technological and economic viability, environmental, social and governance considerations is sorely needed to inform the renewable industry.

Through a multidisciplinary, holistic approach, academic and industry partners will develop an agenda for the renewable asset circular economy market.

For a Brighter and Sustainable Photovoltaic Industry

The End of Renewable Asset Life Decisions II (ERALD II) research project was funded by EPSRC IAA at Lancaster University and Bluefield Solar Income Fund (BSIF), a FTSE 250 solar-focused investment fund. The main outputs of this project are the policy paper summary and roadmap and the white paper that presents the main challenges to achieve a circular solar PV sector and highlights potential solutions, providing recommendations for industry and policy makers. Our primary focus is on Crystalline Silicon (c-Si) PV Panels, representing 95% of the PV industry market worldwide.

Our full whitepaper will be available for download from 21st July 2025

Roadmap for the Photovoltaic Industry

Our Roadmap for the Photovoltaic Industry provides a number of recommendations for those within the photovoltaics field to help them tackle the end-of-life challenges of PV materials.