The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water has examined opportunities and challenges surrounding the reuse and recycling of solar panels as part of a parliamentary inquiry into reducing solar waste and supporting a circular economy, according to the Parliament of Australia.
The committee held a public hearing in Melbourne hearing from industry representatives, researchers, recyclers, local government and circular economy experts.
The hearing formed part of an inquiry referred to the committee on 19 January 2026 by the Minister for the Environment and Water, Senator the Hon Murray Watt.
Committee Chair Ms Anne Urquhart MP said the inquiry was examining several issues that had emerged repeatedly in submissions.
“The Committee is keen to explore several recurring themes raised in submissions, including product stewardship, collection and recycling pathways, improved data and traceability, and opportunities for the safe reuse of solar panels,” Urquhart said.
She said the committee was also seeking to understand the practical issues faced by organisations involved across the sector.
“We are interested in understanding the practical challenges facing industry, researchers and local government, and how policy settings can support a more effective circular economy for solar panels while reducing waste sent to landfill,” Urquhart said.
Organisations and individuals scheduled to provide evidence included RMIT University, RE-Alliance, Banyule City Council, Elecsome Pty Ltd, Envirostream Australia Pty Ltd, the Clean Energy Council and The Activ Group Solutions, as well as Mr Mann Patel.
The inquiry is considering the future management of solar panels, including opportunities to expand pathways for their reuse and recycling.
The public hearing was broadcast live through the Parliament of Australia. Further information, including the inquiry’s terms of reference, is available through the parliamentary committee.
