An Analysis for Management of End-of-Life Solar PV in India

Abstract

Climate change and depleting energy resources have led the world to adopt new energy resources. Over the years, renewable energy sources and the associated technologies have witnessed giant progress towards sustainable development. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems are the global as well as Indian flag bearers of renewable energy. Solar panels contain hazardous but valuable materials, which give an opportunity to be recycled and reused. A proper waste management strategy can tackle the PV waste generation as well as reclaim required materials from it rather than being discarded in the landfills which can raise environmental concerns. India being the second most populated country relies more on conventional sources. The demand for electricity has grown exponentially since the past decade and a gradual shift towards renewables is increasing to meet the demand. In this paper, we have analyzed the status of the global PV market and the time when the critical point of generated PV waste will reach. We have also discussed about the need for PV waste management and recycling, and also the ways how policies and regulations can help for the same.