Technology Licensing Opportunity: Electrochemical Recycling Technology for Sustainable Recovery of Tellerium and Cadmium from CdTE Photovoltaics
Active, responses due . Special Notice posted by ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF on August 24, 2026. Solicitation BA-1601.
NAICS 562920 (Materials Recovery Facilities). Place of performance: Idaho Falls, Idaho. Full description on SAM.gov.
Description
Electrochemical Recycling Technology for Sustainable Recovery of Tellurium and Cadmium from CdTe Photovoltaics
In-situ oxidant generation reduces chemical use and environmental impact in solar module recycling
Technology Summary
This technology enables electrochemical extraction and recovery of tellurium (Te) and cadmium (Cd) from end-of-life and manufacturing scrap cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic cells. Unlike current recycling methods that rely on externally supplied hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in acid leaching, this process generates oxidants in situ from oxygen or air using electrochemical methods. The approach decreases reliance on bulk chemicals and significantly lowers the carbon footprint of recycling operations, while still producing Te metal and Cd suitable for reuse in photovoltaic manufacturing.
Problem Addressed
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High environmental footprint of current CdTe PV recycling due to reliance on H₂O₂ production and use.
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Supply chain and logistics burden from transporting and storing bulk chemicals.
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Growing need for sustainable recycling as CdTe photovoltaics expand in deployment.
Solution
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Electrochemical in-situ generation of oxidants eliminates external H₂O₂ sourcing.
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Direct recovery of Te metal and Cd for reintegration into module production.
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Electricity-driven process supports integration with renewable or nuclear power, lowering lifecycle emissions.
Key Advantages
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Reduced environmental impact: Avoids carbon-intensive bulk chemical manufacturing.
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Lower logistical burden: Minimizes transportation and storage of hazardous oxidants.
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Clean energy compatible: Process can run on renewable or low-carbon electricity.
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Next-generation mining model: Enables sustainable materials recovery aligned with circular economy goals.
Market Applications
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CdTe photovoltaic recycling: Direct application to commercial operations, such as First Solar’s module recovery.
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Sustainable metals recovery: Broader potential for hydrometallurgical extraction of critical elements.
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Circular economy strategies: Supports renewable energy companies seeking closed-loop manufacturing.
Overview
Award Overview
Possible prior contracts
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Contacts
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Primary Contact
Documents
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Lifecycle
BA-1601- 3×Special NoticeCurrentSep 8, 2025
Technology Licensing Opportunity: Electrochemical Recycling Technology for Sustainable Recovery of Tellerium and Cadmium from CdTE Photovoltaics
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AMEND 0003 POSTED TO ANSWER AND CLARIFY VENDOR QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS. AMEND 0002 POSTED TO ANSWER AND CLARIFY VENDOR QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS. AMEND 0001 POSTED TO ANSWER AND CLARIFY VENDOR QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS. Vendor to supply all materials and labor for the cleaning and maintenance of the VA Medical Center Boise and the adjoining Mountain Cove Campus gutters, downspouts, and roof drains. Service will be carried out in two phases in November and June each Period of service. All services will be provided in accordance with the Statement of Work. Vendor will bill monthly in arrears for services performed. See attached Solicitation for SOW for requirement details. | Combined Synopsis | 562998 | Veteran-Owned Small Business Sole Source (VA only) | 10/08/2026 | 10/15/2026 | - | |
AMEND 0002 POSTED TO ANSWER AND CLARIFY VENDOR QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS. AMEND 0001 POSTED TO ANSWER AND CLARIFY VENDOR QUESTIONS AND REQUESTS. Vendor to supply all materials and labor for the cleaning and maintenance of the VA Medical Center Boise and the adjoining Mountain Cove Campus gutters, downspouts, and roof drains. Service will be carried out in two phases in November and June each Period of service. All services will be provided in accordance with the Statement of Work. Vendor will bill monthly in arrears for services performed. See attached Solicitation for SOW for requirement details. | Combined Synopsis | 562998 | Veteran-Owned Small Business Sole Source (VA only) | 10/06/2026 | 10/15/2026 | - |
Additional Details
Solicitation Number
BA-1601
Archive Date
Nov 23, 2026
Office Address
Idaho Falls, ID, 83415