Fostering Solar Panel Recycling Policies: Recent Developments and Future Trends in Japan

Seminar on Solar Panel Recycling Policies and Market Trends

On June 30, 2026, an insightful seminar titled "Solar Panel Recycling Policies and Market Trends" will take place, featuring prominent speakers from Japan's Ministry of the Environment and Mizuho Bank. This event aims to shed light on the growing importance of solar panel recycling amid an anticipated increase in waste during the late 2030s.

Seminar Details

Date and Time: June 30, 2026 (Tuesday), 10 AM to 12 PM
Location: SSK Seminar Room, 2-6-2 Nishishinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Alternately available via live Zoom webinar and recorded access for two weeks post-seminar.

Presenters

- Yuta Okazaki, Director of the Planning Office, Environmental Restoration and Resource Recycling Bureau, Ministry of the Environment
- Akiho Kawai, Analyst, Industrial Research Division, Mizuho Bank

Key Lecture Topics

1. Promotion of Solar Panel Recycling (Yuta Okazaki)

From the inception of the feed-in tariffs in 2012, the introduction of solar energy facilities has surged. This growth is expected to lead to an increase in discarded solar panels by the late 2030s. The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), has advanced legislative discussions, resulting in the passage of the "Law for Promoting the Reuse of Solar Battery Waste" in May of this year. During this session, Mr. Okazaki will outline the current situation of solar panel disposal and recycling, detailing:

- Historical initiatives surrounding panel disposal and recycling.
- Insights into the recently enacted reuse promotion law.
- An interactive Q&A segment and business card exchange.

2. Expansion of Solar Energy and Establishing a Resource Circulation Cycle (Akiho Kawai)

With projections suggesting a significant increase in used solar panels in the 2030s, proper disposal handling is becoming imperative. In April 2026, a cabinet resolution approved the draft bill promoting the reuse of solar battery waste. This session will focus on creating systems for the proper processing and circulation of resources from discarded solar panels, encouraging both waste treatment and energy generation enhancements among operators. Key points will include:

- Current policy trends surrounding solar power.
- Movements within the solar energy sector.
- Insights on resource circulation associated with solar panels.
- Exemplary case studies from companies promoting recycling glass.
- Strategies for improving efficient collection practices.
- Insights into warranties and insurance concerning solar energy infrastructure.
- Key issues and approaches for resolving challenges in solar panel resource circulation.
- An interactive Q&A segment and business card exchange.

About the Organizers

The seminar is organized by the New Society System Institute (SSK), based in Tokyo, which has been delivering high-level seminars since its establishment in December 1996. The organization focuses on providing extensive knowledge on management strategies, market trends, and technological advances, assisting businesses in navigating complex environments. SSK operates approximately 500 seminars annually, affirming its commitment to being a strategic partner for success and growth in the business sector.

For further information or inquiries regarding the seminar, please contact: