The collection results are in fine with the forecasts and market studies conducted by CERES since 2010. The associations innovative business model of covering collection and recycling costs through its recycling partners has indeed been validated. Therefore manufacturers who have already joined CERES in order to manage photovoltaic waste already benefit from a competitive advantage and are in full compliance with current regulations.
The CERES take-back system consists of electronic waste management professionals that already have every necessary authorizations needed to operate collection points in accordance with national and European regulations. CERES has chosen to work with local actors in every country since they already have a large operating base and proven expertise. This allows to build the CERES system on existing infrastructures and to maximise the cost/performance ratio in order to better serve the associations members.
Nicolas Defrenne, CERES managing director, has declared that « over the last 30 days, ten new members have joined us which is confirms that CERES benefits from a very positive dynamic. Indeed, support from the photovoltaic industry is paramount for us as we want to make our free take-back model the rule and to preserve the competitiveness of photovoltaic manufacturers».
CERES is also working in order to preserve its systems compliance with all the requirements of the new WEEE Directive, which now includes photovoltaic panels. CERES will manage for its members the entire process of waste declaration, collection, monitoring and recycling without any additional costs for them.
