As the world embraces renewable energy, the lifespan of solar panels becomes a pressing issue. With an estimated lifespan of 25 to 30 years, millions of panels are expected to reach the end of their useful life soon. But what happens to them next? They become big, bulky sheets of electronic solar e-waste. Most of the world doesn’t have a plan for dealing with about 6 million metric tons of new solar e-waste annually.
At OPP, we have a plan for that!
While recycling offers a crucial solution, reusing still-functional panels, battery systems and inverters is an even better option. This is exactly why Ocean Purpose Project's offices are not located in air-conditioned concrete buildings using energy from the grid. We work from the OPP Beach Hub which uses recycled solar panels from a project in Pulau Semakau to determine if Singapore's HDB rooftops could be powered with solar. Through the help of our solar advisor Paul Hibbard and the electrical mapping and conversion of DC to AC power from Samuel Vedanaigam- all staff, volunteers and mentors who have ever worked, DJ-ed, played music, charged laptops or used a power tool has harnessed the power of the sun. Even our OPP Herb Garden is powered by solar lights gifted by Singaporean Hockey Gold Medalist, Farleigh Clarke.
Although we work in ocean conservation, it was vital to our CEO Mathilda D'silva that our offices are the first ocean conservation office in Singapore to rely entirely on recycled solar power for all our activities! In fact, since we built our OPP Beach Hub (yes - staff and residents of Pasir Ris physically carried these recycled F1 materials and assembled the office), our solar generated enough energy to offset 2601 tonnes of carbon dioxide. If only our eco-office's green credentials were listed on the European Union Emissions Trading System - it would be valued at EURO$241,398, enough to OPP Beach Hubs!
The Energy Market Authority (EMA) of Singapore predicts solar energy will eventually allow Singapore to meet about 10 per cent of its projected electricity demand in 2050. As Singapore navigates the challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability, initiatives like the OPP Beach Hub's solar repurposing and off-grid structure are a clear, tangible 24/7 example of Singapore's cleaner, greener future unfolding on the beaches of Pasir Ris. By embracing renewable energy solutions and promoting responsible consumption, you can build a more resilient, sustainable world for generations to come. Learn how you can support OPP's numerous projects at https://lnkd.in/gE8bj9C
💡 #SolarRecycling #RenewableEnergy #Sustainability #OffGridLiving #ClimateAction
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Product Designer
1moContrast issue here 👍