Hokuriku Geotec, a Niigata-based company specializing in industrial waste processing and a group company of Hirose Co., Ltd., has launched Niigata Prefecture’s first solar panel recycling facility. The facility, which opened at the end of February, is capable of processing up to 50 panels per hour—equivalent to approximately 240 panels per day1 2.
Niigata Prefecture’s First Solar Panel Recycling Facility
According to Hokuriku Geotec, the entire solar panel can be loaded directly into the recycling machine after manually removing the copper wiring. The system includes an automated function to sort out foreign materials mixed with the separated glass. These materials are detected using a combination of dry and wet vibration screens, air separators, and color sorters. Additionally, a metal detector is employed to remove any remaining foreign substances3.
Hokuriku Geotec has been officially recognized as a “ONE Company” under Niigata City’s Environmental Excellence Program in the 3R Promotion Category (Japanese: 新潟市環境優良事業者等認定制度 (3R推進部門))4.
EnerScale Insight
Establishing a nationwide network of recycling facilities is essential to meet Japan’s projected future demand for large-scale solar panel recycling. In the absence of such infrastructure, logistical costs would rise, and the environmental burden from CO₂ emissions associated with transportation would increase. The recent launch of the first solar panel recycling facility in Niigata Prefecture marks a promising step toward building a circular economy for solar energy in Japan.
References
- Yomiuri Shimbun Online, “First Solar Panel Recycling Facility in Niigata Prefecture Begins Operations.” Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.yomiuri.co.jp/local/niigata/news/20250331-OYTNT50086/ ↩︎
- TV News Dig, “Niigata’s First Solar Panel Recycling Center Opens in Minami Ward, Niigata City – Panels Separated by Material into Metal, Glass, and Plastic.” Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/1758187?display=1 ↩︎
- Hirose Co. Ltd., “First Solar Panel Recycling Center Established in the Prefecture.” Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.n-hirose.co.jp/information/8667/ ↩︎
- Niigata City, “List of Certified Excellent Environmental Businesses in Niigata City (3R Promotion Category).” Accessed: Apr. 11, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.city.niigata.lg.jp/kurashi/gomi/jigyousha/jigyokei/kankyoyuryojigyosha/ninnteizigyousya.html ↩︎
