How to bid on Technology Licensing for Electrochemical Recycling Technology from Energy, Department of

What the Department of Energy is offering

The Department of Energy is making available a technology licensing opportunity for an electrochemical recycling process. This technology is designed to recover tellurium and cadmium from end-of-life and manufacturing scrap cadmium telluride (CdTe) photovoltaic cells. This process is notable for generating oxidants on-site, which reduces the need for externally supplied hydrogen peroxide, lowers the carbon footprint of recycling operations, and minimizes the handling of hazardous chemicals. It aims to support sustainable solar module recycling, critical metals recovery, and closed-loop photovoltaic manufacturing.

This opportunity could be valuable for businesses involved in solar module recycling, sustainable metals recovery, or those pursuing circular economy strategies within the renewable energy sector. The technology offers a way to reduce environmental impact and logistical burdens associated with current recycling methods.

Key dates and deadlines

This technology licensing opportunity was published on August 24, 2026. The deadline for responses is November 08, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. It is important to submit all required information before this exact time and date.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is well-suited for firms in the environmental technology sector, particularly those focused on recycling, materials recovery, or sustainable manufacturing. Companies involved in CdTe photovoltaic recycling, such as commercial operations like First Solar’s module recovery, would find direct application for this technology. It also aligns with businesses seeking to implement circular economy strategies and those interested in hydrometallurgical extraction of critical elements with reduced environmental impact.

How to access the opportunity

To view the full details of this technology licensing opportunity, you need to access the original source on the portal. Click the “View original source” button. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it a second time to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your response for a technology licensing opportunity, clearly articulate how your organization will implement and commercialize the technology. Highlight your firm's relevant experience in recycling, materials science, or renewable energy. Emphasize your capacity to integrate this electrochemical process into existing or new operations, and how it aligns with your business goals for sustainability and efficiency.

Provide a clear plan for how you will leverage the key advantages of this technology, such as reduced environmental impact, lower logistical burden, and compatibility with clean energy sources. Detail your understanding of the market applications, including CdTe photovoltaic recycling and broader sustainable metals recovery, and how your proposal will address these areas effectively.