SOLAR MATERIALS GmbH, a cleantech startup based in Magdeburg, has been developing technologies for solar module recycling since 2021, with the goal of closing the raw material loop in the solar industry to protect the environment. Their patented process economically recovers 98 % of all valuable materials from end-of-life solar panels—especially silver, silicon, and high-quality glass. Since becoming a certified recycler in 2023, the company is scaling up to process 7,000 tons annually, with a fully automated industrial facility launching in 2025. Recovered materials save up to 95% in energy use and reduce carbon emissions by 80%, making SOLAR MATERIALS a key player in building a sustainable energy future —and strengthening Europe's raw material independence.