Abstract: With the global energy structure transitioning and the rapid development of the photovoltaic (PV) industry, the issue of handling large-scale retirement of photovoltaic modules is becoming increasingly prominent. This paper introduces the research progress in the recycling and utilization of retired photovoltaic components, as well as policies and practices in the field of photovoltaic recycling at home and abroad, especially the certain achievements made by China in this field. It discusses the characteristics of recycling technologies such as physical separation, thermal treatment, and chemical solvent methods. Selecting the appropriate recycling technology to form a comprehensive recycling technology route for the components of retired photovoltaic (PV) modules is crucial for achieving resourceful recycling of the modules. This is of significant importance for the sustainable development of the PV recycling industry and for achieving the dual goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality.

Key words: Waste photovoltaic modules, Crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules, Laminated components, Resource recycling