The rapid growth of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations in India has ushered in an era of renewable energy expansion. Although the environmental benefits and energy security are promising, this surge in PV adoption has raised a pressing concern regarding PV waste management. This paper provides an overview of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities associated with solar PV waste management in India, considering both techno-economic and social perspectives. From a technological standpoint, the disposal and recycling of PV modules pose challenges due to their complex composition, including materials like glass, metals, and potentially hazardous compounds. The absence of standardized recycling infrastructure in India exacerbates these issues. In contrast, there are ample opportunities in the form of innovative recycling technologies, including the recovery of valuable materials, which can reduce environmental impact and create economic value. On a socio-economic level, the informal sector's involvement in waste collection and recycling can lead to health and safety risks for workers. The implementation of safe and sustainable recycling practices is crucial. Furthermore, solar PV waste management can generate employment opportunities in a green economy, aligning with India's sustainable development goals. Balancing these aspects will be key to ensuring the sustainable future of solar PV in India.

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Challenges and Opportunities in Solar PV Waste Management in India: A Techno-Economic and Social Perspective

  • Moumita Roy,
  • Manish Kumar Jha,
  • Sagnik Bhattacharya

摘要

The rapid growth of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations in India has ushered in an era of renewable energy expansion. Although the environmental benefits and energy security are promising, this surge in PV adoption has raised a pressing concern regarding PV waste management. This paper provides an overview of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities associated with solar PV waste management in India, considering both techno-economic and social perspectives. From a technological standpoint, the disposal and recycling of PV modules pose challenges due to their complex composition, including materials like glass, metals, and potentially hazardous compounds. The absence of standardized recycling infrastructure in India exacerbates these issues. In contrast, there are ample opportunities in the form of innovative recycling technologies, including the recovery of valuable materials, which can reduce environmental impact and create economic value. On a socio-economic level, the informal sector's involvement in waste collection and recycling can lead to health and safety risks for workers. The implementation of safe and sustainable recycling practices is crucial. Furthermore, solar PV waste management can generate employment opportunities in a green economy, aligning with India's sustainable development goals. Balancing these aspects will be key to ensuring the sustainable future of solar PV in India.