{"id":109191,"date":"2025-08-29T10:13:33","date_gmt":"2025-08-29T08:13:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sonnenseite.com\/?p=109191"},"modified":"2025-08-29T10:13:33","modified_gmt":"2025-08-29T08:13:33","slug":"ai-and-robotics-for-the-reuse-of-used-pv-modules","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sonnenseite.com\/en\/economy\/ai-and-robotics-for-the-reuse-of-used-pv-modules\/","title":{"rendered":"AI and Robotics for the Reuse of Used PV Modules"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
The funded research project ‘WattsOK?’ has been launched. This innovative project uses artificial intelligence, optical inspection and robotics to automate quality testing of used photovoltaic modules.
The system uses the test results to make decisions about reuse or recycling, with the aim of maximising the service life of the modules while increasing the photovoltaic sector’s resource efficiency and sustainability. Building on a successful pilot project within the EDIH AI5Production framework, the project is being implemented by the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology in cooperation with several industry partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The rapid expansion of photovoltaic systems is a key factor in the energy transition, but it also presents new challenges. One such challenge is knowing how to deal with the millions of PV modules that will reach the end of their service life in the coming years. Currently, disused modules are typically recycled without first checking whether they can be reused. Until now, there have been no automated processes in place to make objective decisions. This is precisely where the new research project comes in, asking the question, \u201cWatts OK?<\/em> – Can the module be reused, or should it be recycled?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the official launch, the \u2018WattsOK?\u2019 research project is taking up its work and focusing on the reuse of PV modules with the help of robotics and artificial intelligence. The aim is to develop an automated decision-making process that determines the optimal recycling route for used PV modules: reuse or recycling. \u2018With WattsOK?<\/em>, we are developing an AI-based approach to the systematic reuse of photovoltaic modules \u2013 and in doing so, we are leveraging the strength of AIT to translate research into industrial solutions,\u2019 explains Andreas Kugi, Scientific Director of the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Coordinated by the AIT , the research project addresses the growing volume of used PV modules and lays the technological foundation for their systematic reuse. \u201cWith WattsOK?<\/em>, we are creating a data-driven, automated solution to a real problem in the PV sector,\u201d explains Nicole Brosch, head of the project. \u201cAt the same time, it also demonstrates how applied research can contribute to more efficient use of resources in line with the principles of the circular economy,\u201d adds her colleague Laurin Ginner. Both scientists conduct research at AIT in the field of high-performance optical inspection and image processing.
Smart decision-making process <\/strong>At the heart of the project lies an intelligent, automated process that determines whether used PV modules can be reused or need to be recycled. This process includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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AI-supported optical inspection procedures to check surface quality<\/li>\n\n\n\n
precise electrical measurements to check functionality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The process is complemented by the robot-assisted replacement of connectors, which is an initial refurbishment step that makes the modules usable again. A central role in this process is played by a database that links inspection data, measured values and product specifications. Not only does this database serve as the basis for the AI algorithms, it also ensures transparency and traceability of decisions. \u201cWith our system, we are the first in the field of automated, economically viable testing of PV modules that is also suitable for larger quantities. WattsOK?<\/em> uses the data from these tests. We, and therefore our customers, benefit from the results of the research project. It is a great example of how research and commercial use can be efficiently combined for the benefit of everyone involved,\u201d says Simon Pr\u00fcller, CEO and co-founder of 2nd Cycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n