ATLANTA – Leading solar panel manufacturer Qcells is expanding its footprint in Cartersville by building a recycling center, the South Korean company announced Monday.
Qcells is forming a new company called EcoRecycle by Qcells to recycle up to 500,000 panels annually, repurposing materials including aluminum, glass, silver, and copper.
“As the U.S. moves towards a more sustainable and self-reliant solar industry, EcoRecycle by Qcells is committed to pioneering innovative recycling technologies that not only reduce environmental impact, but also create economic opportunities,” said Jung-Kwon Hong, head of Qcells Manufacturing Group.
“Through strategic investments and cutting-edge solutions, we are positioning ourselves as a leader in the circular economy, ensuring that solar energy remains a truly renewable and responsible power source.”
Currently, the lack of recycling opportunities has led to the majority of waste solar panels being sent to landfills.
“Effectively managing solar waste is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the clean energy sector,” said Kelly Weger, senior director of sustainability at Qcells. “We’re proud to be leading the charge with the launch of EcoRecycle by Qcells.”
Qcells has had a presence in Georgia since 2019, when the company opened the largest solar panel manufacturing plant in the Western Hemisphere in Dalton, which then was expanded in 2023. The Dalton facility was followed by a second manufacturing plant in Cartersville.