Sustainable Management of Photovoltaic Panel Waste: Technological Solutions and Policy Perspectives

International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJEEE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 10

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Nivedita Padole, Ravindra Moharil, Akshay Kadu

10.14445/23488379/IJEEE-V12I10P114

How to Cite?

Nivedita Padole, Ravindra Moharil, Akshay Kadu, "Sustainable Management of Photovoltaic Panel Waste: Technological Solutions and Policy Perspectives," SSRG International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 10, pp. 186-202, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488379/IJEEE-V12I10P114

Abstract:

Photovoltaic (PV) energy has become a cornerstone of global renewable power generation, with cumulative installed capacity expanding rapidly in recent decades. As first-generation solar panels approach the end of their service life, the issue of PV module waste is emerging as a significant environmental and economic challenge. Studies project that by 2050, the world could accumulate around 60–78 million metric tons of discarded solar panels. These end-of-life panels contain valuable materials (glass, aluminum, silicon, silver, etc.) worth an estimated US$15 billion by mid-century. Proper management of this waste stream is therefore critical to both preventing environmental hazards and recovering resources for manufacturing new panels, supporting a circular economy. Crystalline silicon (c-Si) technology currently dominates the solar industry, accounting for roughly 90–95% of deployed PV capacity. Accordingly, much of the waste and recycling effort centers on c-Si modules. However, thin-film technologies (like CdTe and CIGS) and emerging photovoltaics (such as perovskite solar cells) also require attention due to their unique materials and potential toxicities. This paper provides a comprehensive review of technological solutions for PV panel end-of-life management, focusing on recycling and reuse approaches for c-Si modules while also covering thin-film and new PV technologies. In addition, in this work, the policies are examined and regulatory frameworks – from the EU’s mandatory producer responsibility to state-level initiatives in the US and efforts in Asia – that are needed to drive and support sustainable PV waste management. Technological advances in recycling processes and supportive policies must go hand in hand to ensure that the photovoltaic revolution remains environmentally sustainable throughout the full life cycle of the panels.

Keywords:

Photovoltaic Waste, Solar panel recycling, End-of-Life Management, Circular economy, Extended producer responsibility, Sustainability.

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