BEST Magazine 23 January 2026

Solar and storage lead the energy transition at KEY 2026

Why It Matters for ITAD

The accelerating deployment of solar and storage systems means ITAD and recycling firms will see a significant influx of photovoltaic panels, inverters, and large-scale battery systems reaching end-of-life in the coming decade. This creates both a new waste stream challenge and a business opportunity for specialized recycling and component recovery services, requiring new technical expertise and compliance with evolving WEEE regulations for these products.

KEY 2026, the Italian Exhibition Group’s (IEG) flagship event on future energy, will take place from 4–6 March 2026 at the Rimini Expo Centre, Italy. Europe’s energy transition continues apace despite the complexities of the current scenario. Solar remains the true driver of change and a growth engine for renewables, which surpassed 50% of the…

Key Takeaways

  • Prepare for a growing stream of solar panel and energy storage battery e-waste.
  • Develop technical capabilities and partnerships to handle these specialized, often hazardous, material streams.
  • Monitor EU regulations for solar PV and large batteries, as compliance requirements will evolve.

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