What is India's projected solar PV module waste by 2047?

India is projected to generate approximately 11,221 kilotonnes of solar PV module waste by 2047.

How can recycling help India's solar industry?

Recycling solar module waste can significantly reduce the demand for imported raw materials like silicon, aluminum, and copper, supporting domestic manufacturing.

What are the challenges for solar PV recycling in India?

Challenges include a lack of local markets for secondary materials, difficulties in reverse logistics, and the high costs associated with current recycling technologies.

Home / Environment / India's Solar Waste: A Looming Crisis or Golden Opportunity?

India's Solar Waste: A Looming Crisis or Golden Opportunity?

6 Dec

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Summary

India may generate 11,221 kt of solar PV waste by 2047.
Recycling solar waste can meet significant material demands.
Financial analysis is crucial for India's solar recycling growth.

India's Solar Waste: A Looming Crisis or Golden Opportunity?

India is on track to accumulate approximately 11,221 kilotonnes of solar photovoltaic module waste by 2047, presenting a critical waste management challenge. Simultaneously, the nation's burgeoning solar manufacturing sector requires substantial raw materials, many of which are imported. Embracing a circular economy through solar PV module recycling offers a dual solution to mitigate waste and decrease reliance on imported materials.

Recycling these modules could satisfy a significant percentage of India's demand for key resources like silicon, aluminum, and copper by 2047, bolstering domestic production capabilities. While global commercial solar PV recycling is nascent, India is actively exploring solutions through MNRE's innovation challenges and R&D initiatives. Companies like First Solar are already establishing recycling facilities within the country.