Project Background
Context & Growth
The Mekong region has experienced rapid growth in solar energy adoption over the past decade. Countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam are increasingly investing in solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to meet energy demand and support the transition to clean energy.
Current Limitations
Currently, there is limited infrastructure, insufficient data, and a lack of clear regulatory frameworks to manage this emerging waste stream effectively. Without proper systems in place, solar panel waste may lead to:
- Environmental risks.
- Loss of valuable materials.
- Missed opportunities for circular economy development.
The Emerging Challenge
While this growth brings significant environmental and economic benefits, it also introduces a new challenge: the management of end-of-life solar panels.
Lifespan
Future Outlook
Our Response
In response to this challenge, the SolarCycle Mekong project was established to support sustainable, data-driven, and collaborative solutions for solar panel lifecycle management in the region.
The Solar PV Lifecycle & Recycling Mekong Project is a regional initiative implemented under the Mekong–ROK Cooperation Fund (MKCF). We bring together stakeholders from Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam—including government agencies, industry representatives, and academic institutions—to solve the challenges of solar panel end-of-life management.
01
Field research and stakeholder engagement
02
Development of a solar panel recycling prototype
03
Creation of a regional database for solar PV systems
04
Capacity building through workshops and training
05
Knowledge sharing and regional collaboration
Expected Outcomes & Impact
Installation Plan with Data Points
To generate practical solutions and improve data availability, installers can digitally log every deployment—recording location, panel count, and activation dates. A clean-energy deployment dashboard tracks real-time data on the age, location, and health of each panel, providing a precise history of use and availability.
Recycled End-of-Life Loop
To contribute to sustainable systems for recycling and circular economy practices in the Mekong region, removal specialists log the exact volume and location. When panels reach their end-of-life, the app cross-references historical degradation levels and panel age, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition to responsible disposal or material reuse.
Recycling Document Stack & Materials
To support evidence-based policy development, recyclers manage incoming shipments and document the recovery process. This includes detailed tracking of materials reclaimed—such as glass, steel, and precious metals—and the specific recycling methods used, validating material value and processing standards.
