ACEN Australia’s 520-megawatt direct current (MWdc) Stubbo Solar project has become the first utility-scale solar farm in the country to receive a Circular PV Alliance (CPVA) “CPVA Certified” rating for demonstrating strong circular-economy practices. The company announced on November 13 that nearly one million solar panels at the site will be recycled or repurposed at the end of their operational life.

The certification assessed the project’s planning, procurement, operations, and future decommissioning, giving Stubbo Solar an “Exceeds” rating for meeting circular-economy standards. This includes verified pathways for panel reuse and recycling as well as measures aimed at reducing waste throughout the supply chain.

Stubbo Solar began generating power this year and is on track to achieve full commercial operations by the end of November. The project has already secured a 20-year Long-Term Service Agreement under New South Wales’ first renewable energy and storage auction.

ACEN Australia said the recognition spotlights their commitment to responsible development and long-term sustainability as the country prepares for a significant rise in solar waste volumes by 2030. The company now has more than 1 gigawatt of assets in operation and over 10 gigawatts in development across Australia.

Do you think certifications like this could set a new standard for circularity in large-scale renewable energy projects?

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