sustainability – Voltmax Energy Solutions in Luxembourg

Voltmax and Earth Day in Luxembourg – Renewable energy education

Voltmax — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 06:37:45 +0000

Voltmax at the Sainte-Sophie School: Together on the Future of Our Planet

In celebration of International Earth Day, we had the wonderful opportunity to visit the students at the École Privée Notre-Dame Sainte-Sophie School in Luxembourg. As part of our commitment to environmental education, we engaged them in a conversation about how we can collectively care for our planet and the important role renewable energy plays in that mission. Through the school’s “Luxembourg Sustainable Development” project, we aimed to inspire ecological awareness from an early age – because it’s the children who will shape the future of our world.

Little experts with big questions

During our time there, we interacted with students of various ages—both younger and older. Each group brought their own unique perspective on energy and ecological issues. However, it was the youngest ones who truly amazed us with their curiosity, honesty, and some really insightful questions. “Do solar panels work when it rains?” and “What happens to the electricity we don’t use?” are just a couple of examples that highlight how eager these kids are to understand the world around them.

Their questions were not only amusing but also incredibly relevant. This is what it’s all about—sparking curiosity and encouraging independent thought. Ecological education isn’t just a lecture; it’s a dialogue, a sharing of ideas, and a collaborative journey toward living more consciously. We have to say, the students gave us plenty of reasons to feel proud and inspired.

A competition that stimulates the imagination

During our visit, we also announced an exciting art competition that we’re hosting in collaboration with the school. The themes are truly captivating—ranging from their favorite renewable energy sources to envisioning a future home powered by the sun, or even creating a superhero who saves the planet using solar energy! Kids can express their creativity through posters, drawings, or collages, as long as everything is handmade. What matters most is the creativity and the idea behind it!

The competition is split into three age categories: 6-10, 11-14, and 15-18 years old. The creators of the top entries have a chance to snag some fantastic prizes, including vouchers for bikes and accessories from the Andy Schleck Cycles store, educational games, Voltmax gadgets, and certificates of recognition. And here’s the cherry on top: the awards will be handed out by none other than Andy Schleck himself – the Tour de France champion! The ceremony is set for June 10 during the LUGA event at Science HUB. You can submit your works until May 16, and Mr. Lucas LIEGEOIS is the competition coordinator.

This isn’t just a competition; it’s a chance for kids to share their ideas and demonstrate that ecology can be both significant and exciting.

Together towards a green future

We’re thrilled to be part of such meaningful initiatives. The Sainte-Sophie school beautifully illustrated the importance of discussing ecology from a young age. It was a remarkable gathering – filled with laughter, positive vibes, and genuine conversations.

A big thank you to all the students, teachers, and organizers for their warm hospitality and dedication. Events like these prove that when we come together, we can achieve so much – and together, we’re building a more environmentally conscious Luxembourg.

If the topic of renewable energy interests you not only in the context of education, but also practical solutions for your home – we will be happy to help you. Contact one of our advisors and together we will find a solution tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

Join the movement for a greener future. Fill in the form and get free expert advice on renewable energy solutions for your home or business in Luxembourg

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Recover and reuse: Recycling of photovoltaic panels

Voltmax — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 11:19:48 +0000

Recycling photovoltaic panels is an increasingly common phenomenon.

Recycling of photovoltaic panels in Europe and Luxembourg is gaining increasing importance in the context of the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. This process, which enables the recovery of valuable materials and reduces environmental impact, becomes not only an answer to ecological needs but also to legal requirements imposed by EU directives.

Across Europe, thanks to stricter regulations on electronic waste and greater ecological awareness, countries such as Germany, Italy, Japan, and China lead in the implementation of advanced recycling technologies. The European Union, through various directives, obligates manufacturers and importers of photovoltaic panels to organize and finance recycling systems, aimed at increasing the efficiency of resource recovery and reducing the negative environmental impact.

Is it possible to recycle photovoltaic panels? If so, which part can be recycled?

In general, all photovoltaic panels are recyclable. Indeed, there are risk-free procedures for silicon-based panels as well as for thin-film panels containing cadmium. Moreover, recycling is regulated by the European Directive 2012/19/EU on waste electrical and electronic equipment, which is transposed into national law by the law of 9 June 2022 on waste electrical and electronic equipment: this framework currently requires at least 80% of the mass of a photovoltaic panel to be prepared for reuse or recycled, and 85% of the mass to be recovered.

The recycling rate of photovoltaic modules is nevertheless close to 100%, considering that the modules are generally composed mainly of glass, aluminium and other metals. Net modules usually contain very limited amounts of synthetic materials, such as silicon or other minerals. However, it is technically possible to recycle these elements, even if the processes for extracting them are not yet cost-effective. Thus, these materials are currently mainly used for thermal recovery.

The photovoltaic panel recycling process, which includes collecting and sorting, dismantling, shredding, thermal treatments, chemical processes, and cleaning, allows for the recovery of key materials such as glass, metals (including silver and aluminum), silicon, and other substances. These actions not only contribute to environmental protection but also support the development of sustainable solar energy, offering a second life to recovered materials. Let’s trace the key stages of this process that enable the transformation of used photovoltaic panels into valuable resources.

Stages of the recycling process

The photovoltaic panel recycling process consists of several stages:

Collecting and sorting: Panels are collected and transported to recycling centers, where they are sorted based on their type and material composition. The initial segregation involves separating elements into major categories: panels, equipment, wiring, heat sources, etc.
Dismantling: The preliminary dismantling involves removing aluminum frames and connectors, which are relatively easy to recover and reuse.
Shredding: Next, the panels are shredded to reduce their size and facilitate the separation of different components.
Thermal treatments: In some methods, panels are subjected to high temperatures to separate glass from other materials.
Chemical processes: At this stage, various chemical methods are used to recover valuable materials, such as silver, lead, or silicon.
Cleaning: The final stage involves cleaning the recovered materials so they are ready for reuse in the production of new photovoltaic panels or other products. Recovered substances and materials

In the process of recycling photovoltaic panels, a range of valuable materials are recovered:

Glass: Makes up about 75% of the panel’s mass and is easily recovered for reuse. The possibility of recovering glass from photovoltaic panels is high, reaching about 90-95%. This glass can be reused in the production of new panels or other products.
Metals, such as silver used in wires, and aluminum from panel frames. The recovery of metals from photovoltaic panels is also efficient, with the recovery of silver reaching up to 95%, and aluminum – up to 100%. These metals can be reused in various industrial sectors.
Silicon: Can be recovered, although its purification for reuse in photovoltaic panels is more complicated. The recovery of silicon is more complex, but recycling technologies continue to develop, aiming to increase recovery efficiency. Currently, about 85% of silicon can be recovered, which after proper cleaning can be reused in the production of new photovoltaic panels.
Other materials, including copper, lead, and plastics, are also recovered, though their percentage share in the panel mass is smaller.

Do photovoltaic panels contain hazardous materials?

With regard to cells made of silicon, which are by far the most widely used on the Luxembourg market, current production techniques do not require the use of any substances that are harmful to the environment.

Thin-film cells use elements such as cadmium or tellurium. The quantities used for the production of related modules are, however, minimal, especially for cells composed of cadmium telluride, known as CdTe. CdTe has low toxicity and the environmental consequences are considered negligible compared to the impact that could be caused by other means of electricity generation.

What is the environmental impact of photovoltaic panels?

The environmental impact is taken into account over the entire life cycle. Thus, environmental effects (such as the impact on climate change, the extraction of minerals, toxicity for human beings, etc.) are taken into consideration during the production and operation of the photovoltaic installation, including the savings made due to the energy produced during its life cycle.

Even if we consider that the production of certain photovoltaic panels requires scarce resources and hazardous materials, the environmental impact throughout their life cycle is less than that caused by the national or European electricity mix. This overall impact can be further reduced by recycling end-of-life panels or by refurbishing used panels for reuse in a second life.

Recycling law of photovoltaic panels in Luxembourg

In Luxembourg according to the law of 9 June 2022 on waste electrical and electronic equipment, the producer is responsible for the collection and processing of photovoltaic panels.

Producer means any natural person or legal entity who manufactures photovoltaic panels in Luxembourg or initially imports them onto the Luxembourg market. Any person established in another Member State or in a third country who, on a professional basis, supplies photovoltaic panels directly to a user in Luxembourg is considered a producer. In practice, in the majority of cases, this is the installer of the photovoltaic plant in Luxembourg.

Possibilities for owners to dispose of their old photovoltaic panels

For photovoltaic panels put on the market before 13/08/2005 :

in case of replacement of the photovoltaic panels, the take back of the old panel is free of charge and must be ensured by the company supplying the new equipment
in case of dismantling of the photovoltaic panel (non-replacement of the panel), the removal by a professional collector is done against payment by the user

For photovoltaic panels placed on the market after 13/08/2005 :

free take-back by the producer who bears the costs of collection and recovery of the photovoltaic panels.

In summary

In summary, the development of photovoltaic panel recycling technologies in Europe and Luxembourg is a key element of the sustainable development strategy, allowing for the recovery of valuable materials, waste reduction, and decreasing the negative environmental impact. Thanks to engagement at the national and EU levels, prospects for the efficient recycling of photovoltaic panels appear promising, significantly impacting the future of solar energy.

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Switching to Photovoltaic Energy: Ecological and Financial Benefits

Voltmax — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:20:25 +0000

Switching to Photovoltaic Energy is more than just a trend—it’s a conscious step toward building a better future for both the planet and your wallet. By choosing solar energy, you’re actively contributing to the reduction of harmful emissions while gaining greater control over your energy costs.

Photovoltaics are at the heart of the renewable energy revolution. They allow you to produce your own clean electricity, reduce dependence on traditional utility providers, and protect yourself from rising energy prices. With modern technology and government support, switching to photovoltaic energy has never been more accessible or more financially rewarding.

This transition is not only environmentally responsible, but also economically smart. Solar panels significantly lower household energy bills, increase your property’s value, and offer long-term reliability with minimal maintenance. For homeowners and businesses alike, it’s a future-proof solution that pays off in many ways.

By investing in solar energy today, you become part of the shift toward sustainable development and energy independence. Discover how switching to photovoltaic energy can benefit both your home and the planet—and why thousands across Luxembourg are already making the change with Voltmax.

Photovoltaics and traditional energy sources

Solar energy is a renewable and inexhaustible source, unlike fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas or oil. The use of photovoltaics helps avoid the depletion of natural resources and reduces the negative impact on the climate.

Photovoltaics is clean energy

1. Zero CO2 emissions

Producing energy from photovoltaic panels does not generate carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. Reducing CO2 emissions is a key element in the fight against climate change.

1. Cleaner air and better health

Traditional energy sources cause the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere, which negatively affects air quality and human health. Photovoltaics contributes to improving living conditions and protecting ecosystems.

1. Nature conservation

Installing solar panels on building roofs does not require the occupation of new land, which helps preserve the natural environment and biodiversity.

1. Water savings

Producing energy from fossil fuels requires huge amounts of water. Meanwhile, photovoltaics consumes minimal amounts of it, which is particularly important in regions affected by drought.

Financial benefits and energy independence

1. Lower electricity bills

Photovoltaic panels can significantly reduce electricity costs. Although the initial investment may seem high, the long-term savings outweigh the costs of traditional energy.

1. Independence from energy suppliers

By producing your own energy, you gain a stable supply and become independent from price fluctuations on the energy market.

1. Financial support and subsidies

In Luxembourg, there are numerous support programs that can provide funding for up to 95% of the costs of a photovoltaic installation. This is a great opportunity to reduce your initial costs and enjoy the benefits of renewable energy faster.

Additional benefits of photovoltaics

1. Supporting the green economy

The development of photovoltaics drives innovation and creates new jobs in the renewable energy sector, supporting the ecological transformation of the economy.

1. Better quality of life in cities

Photovoltaic panels help reduce the urban heat island effect, improving the comfort of residents and reducing the need for air conditioning.

1. Easy maintenance and long service life

Modern photovoltaic panels are characterized by a long service life and low maintenance requirements. Regular cleaning and inspections allow you to maintain high system efficiency for many years.

Switching to Photovoltaic Energy is an investment in long-term savings and sustainability.

Switching to solar energy is not only an ecological choice, but also a smart investment that brings economic benefits and increases energy independence. Installing photovoltaic panels allows you to reduce bills, improves air quality and supports the development of a green economy.

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Ready to cut costs and lower your carbon footprint? Get in touch today and discover how switching to solar brings you both financial savings and ecological impact

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