Recycling End-of-Life Photovoltaic Modules in Malaysia: Challenges and Potential Solutions

Abstract

As evidenced from recent policies encouraging renewable energy (RE) penetration in Malaysia, it is envisioned that solar photovoltaic (PV) in the country will receive a significant boost in growth as well. The proliferation of solar PV systems is viewed as a great leap in assisting the decarbonization of our energy generation systems, yet concerns have been raised on the sustainable management of the emerging waste PV modules. Currently, the common treatment methods for the majority of end-of-life (EoL) PV modules in many countries including Malaysia, are landfill disposal or bulk recycling in pre-existing recycling facilities. Even though these methods are simpler in operation due to minimal efforts required to sustainably manage these EoL modules, there is a high probability for environmental issues to occur including leakage of toxic materials and loss of valuable resources. As a result, high-value closed-loop recycling has been proposed to remediate these detrimental effects, but its execution could introduce challenges in Malaysia which this paper attempts to examine upon. Consequently, recommendations to alleviate the challenges faced are proposed, along with potential trade-offs that may arise from the solutions suggested. In essence, research and development (R&D), support from the authorities, as well as cooperation between governmental and private organisations, are necessary in establishing a sustainable and holistic framework for managing PV waste in Malaysia.