On April 8, 2025, Kyocera Communication Systems Co., Ltd. (KCCS) and NPC Incorporated (NPC) announced the initiation of discussions toward a collaboration focused on the reuse and recycling of end-of-life solar panels1.
Toward a Collaboration on the Reuse and Recycling of End-of-Life Solar Panels
KCCS, a subsidiary of the Kyocera Corporation—known for its proprietary technologies—has been involved in solar power development across a wide range of projects, from large-scale mega-solar installations to residential rooftop systems. KCCS leverages its expertise in system design, construction, and maintenance, along with a nationwide network of over 300 partner companies.
NPC specializes in intermediate processing for the reuse and recycling of decommissioned solar panels. The company has developed a proprietary dismantling system based on its Heated Blade Method, which enables the efficient recovery of valuable materials from discarded panels. (“Heated Blade Method” is a registered trademark of NPC Incorporated.)
Through this collaboration, KCCS and NPC aim to integrate their respective technological strengths to establish a new framework for solar power deployment that incorporates reuse and recycling. The initiative aligns with both companies’ commitment to accelerating the transition to a carbon-neutral society by 2050.
EnerScale Insight
Establishing a circular framework for solar power deployment—by integrating reuse and recycling throughout the value chain from the outset—is critical for minimizing solar panel waste. Equally important is ensuring economic viability, particularly as the sector continues to evolve through increased collaboration. Several partnerships have recently been announced to advance solar panel reuse and recycling. Notable examples include collaborations between TRE Holdings Corporation (via its consolidated subsidiary, Rever Corporation) and Toshiba Group companies, as well as between Leapton Energy Co., Ltd. and Niimi Solar Company Co., Ltd.
Reference
- NPC Incorporated, “Announcement of commencement of consideration concerning cooperation between KYOCERA Communication Systems Co., Ltd. and NPC Incorporated regarding the reuse and recycling business of end-of-life solar panels （187kb).” Accessed: Apr. 10, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://contents.xj-storage.jp/xcontents/62550/45f665b9/0c01/4bb0/9507/71813da420a8/20250408111641388s.pdf ↩︎
- Kyocera Communication Systems Co., Ltd., “Initiation of Collaborative Study on the Reuse and Recycling of Used Solar Panels.” Accessed: Apr. 10, 2025. [Online]. Available: https://www.kccs.co.jp/news/release/2025/0408/ ↩︎
