2003 - 2005: First Steps
In 2003, the first publications on waste treatment, WEEE, life cycle issues and voluntary take back systems were released; with the kind support of JRC, IES and EPIA. In the same year, the first Ökopol Study on waste treatment of modules was published.
In 2004, Workshops on waste, LCA, WEEE and Take-back-systems took place and further work was achieved in SP6 of the EU project “CRYSTAL CLEAR“.
In 2005, the first PV CYCLE initiative was started (supported by EPIA and BSW) and the working group PV CYCLE was created. Simultaneously, the first initiatives for IEA PVPS Task 12 were started.
2006 - 2008: Concrete Progress
In 2006, preparations went into a more concrete phase: Drafts of Statutes and Business Plans were made.
In 2007, a comprehensive Study about the recycling of PV-modules was prepared, providing a detailed knowledge basis. On 5th July 2007, the association PV CYCLE was founded in Brussels.
In April 2008, the PV CYCLE Office was opened in the premises of the Renewable Energy House in Brussels.
Since September 2008, a dedicated, interdisciplinary Working Group comprised of representatives of our members is currently defining the specific objectives and cornerstones of a voluntary agreement.