Solar Panels ? An eco-disaster?

Solar Panels – An eco-disaster?

News: According to the British government, there are tens of millions of solar panels in the UK. But the specialist infrastructure to scrap and recycle them is lacking.

Background:
 Solar panels, hailed as a crucial tool in reducing carbon emissions, face the challenge of disposal and replacement as they only last up to 25 years.

What does Solar panel consist of?
 A PV module is essentially made up of glass, metal, silicon and polymer fractions. Glass and aluminium, together constituting around 80% of total weight, are non-hazardous. But a few other materials used including polymers, metals, metallic compounds and alloys are classified as potentially hazardous.

What are concerns with Solar waste management?
 Lack of comprehensive measures and guidelines addressing management of solar waste.
 India could generate over 34,600 tonnes of solar waste by 2030.
 Cost of recycling solar panel is high whereas dumping cost is minimal so latter is preferred option. For example, the solar panels are painstakingly taken apart to recover the precious materials inside - such as copper, silicon and silver.
 Solar panels contain toxic metals and minerals that can harm the environment when not properly managed. Discarded solar panels contain valuable materials like silver, copper, and semiconductor-grade quartz.

What steps are taken by Indian government to address these issues?
 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change added Solar Waste Treatment under E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022 in November 2022.
 Green Credit Programme - It aims to promote green growth and sustainable practices.

What more can be done to promote solar waste management?
 We can mandate module manufacturers to use environmentally sustainable design and materials with endof-life in mind.
 Specify the liability and responsibility of each stakeholder for waste management and treatment.
 Lay down rules and standards for PV waste collection, treatment and disposal.
 Invest in recycling infrastructure to reduce the cost of recycling PV waste.
 United Kingdom has a policy that ensures that industry players are responsible for take-back and recycle scheme.