Advancing European Union Circular Economy in Product Policy: A Recyclability Index for Photovoltaic Modules

As photovoltaic (PV) deployment accelerates, improving the recyclability of PV modules is critical to reduce environmental impacts and support circular economy goals. This article presents a methodology to develop a recyclability index specifically tailored to PV modules, intended to inform future European Union (EU) policy instruments such as Ecodesign and Energy Labeling. The index evaluates service‐related, dismantling‐related, and material‐related parameters, grounded in design‐for‐recycling (DfR) principles. A multicriteria weighting approach was applied to prioritize components based on environmental relevance, criticality, mass content, and economic value—highlighting materials such as glass, aluminum, silicon, and silver. The scoring system was calibrated through laboratory testing of representative PV modules, using purpose‐developed dismantlability tests. The proposed index offers a robust, quantifiable tool to assess and compare PV modules designs based on their recyclability potential. It is intended to support policy development and market differentiation by promoting design choices that enhance material recovery, reduce waste and decrease reliance on virgin materials, contributing to the objectives of the EU Circular Economy Action Plans.