- ALGA supports the solar recycling pilot as a step towards a stronger circular economy.
- Councils call for product stewardship to fairly share recycling responsibility.
Australia has taken a significant step towards sustainable waste management with the launch of a new initiative. The national solar panel recycling pilot signals growing commitment to a circular economy. Importantly, the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) has welcomed the programme as timely and necessary. As solar installations increase, responsible end-of-life solutions have become essential.
According to ALGA President, Mayor Matt Burnett, the announcement represents progress in reducing landfill pressure. He explained that councils already manage many waste and recycling facilities nationwide. Therefore, any coordinated national approach helps ease operational and financial strain on local governments. This pilot also supports better recovery of valuable materials from ageing solar panels.
The Federal Government plans to invest $24.7 million over three years. As part of the programme, up to 100 pilot collection sites will be established across Australia. These sites will divert end-of-life panels from landfill. Consequently, materials such as copper, silver, and aluminium can be recovered and reused. This approach strengthens national recycling and resource recovery capacity.
Local governments remain central to Australia’s clean energy transition. Councils support rooftop solar adoption and guide communities through renewable projects. They also deliver local energy initiatives that build public confidence. Therefore, closing the recycling loop ensures solar panels do not become a future waste burden.
However, ALGA has stressed that the pilot must lead to long-term reform. Mayor Burnett emphasised the need for strong product stewardship arrangements. Manufacturers and importers must share responsibility for managing solar panels at end of life. Otherwise, ratepayers risk absorbing unnecessary costs. Shared responsibility encourages fair outcomes and sustainable industry practices.
For many years, councils have called for national leadership on solar waste. Since local governments manage most waste facilities, their involvement remains critical. Practical recycling solutions must reflect regional needs and operational realities. As a result, collaboration between all government levels is essential.
ALGA continues to advocate for a regulated national product stewardship scheme. Such a framework would distribute responsibility across the supply chain. It would also stimulate investment in recycling infrastructure, workforce skills, and end-use markets. Furthermore, it would provide certainty for councils planning long-term waste strategies.
The association has also welcomed the Productivity Commission’s recommendation for a national recycling scheme. ALGA has expressed readiness to work with federal, state, and local partners. With effective coordination, the national solar panel recycling pilot can evolve into a permanent solution. Ultimately, this initiative supports environmental protection while strengthening Australia’s clean energy future.