India to Generate 11 Million Tonnes of Solar Waste by 2047

According to two studies published on November 6, 2025, India is projected to generate approximately 11 million tonnes of solar waste by the year 2047. This waste will largely come from crystalline-silicon solar modules.

Managing this massive influx of solar waste will be a significant challenge, requiring the establishment of nearly 300 recycling plants across the country and an investment of around ₹4,200 crore. However, the studies also highlight a potential silver lining - the recovery and reuse of materials from discarded solar panels could create a ₹3,700-crore market opportunity by 2047.

If this potential is realized, the recycling of solar waste could meet 38% of the sector's manufacturing inputs in 2047 and avoid 37 million tonnes of carbon emissions by replacing virgin resources with recycled ones. This would not only address the waste management issue but also strengthen India's solar manufacturing self-reliance and contribute to its green industrial growth.

The studies provide a comprehensive blueprint for building a domestic solar recycling ecosystem in India, which is currently at a very early stage with only a few commercial recyclers operating. Experts emphasize the need for policy support, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) targets, tax incentives, and R&D investments, to make solar recycling a viable and profitable industry.