Report Unveils India's Solar Waste Crisis: Key Findings and Recommendations for Sustainable Management

A recent report titled 'Enabling a Circular Economy in India’s Solar Industry – Assessing the Solar Waste Quantum' has shed light on the escalating solar waste crisis in India. The study, conducted by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in collaboration with experts from the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, unveils critical insights into the magnitude of the issue and proposes recommendations for sustainable management.

Key Highlights of the Report

• Solar Waste Projection: India's current solar capacity has generated approximately 100 kilotonnes (kt) of cumulative waste, expected to surge to 340 kt by 2030 and a staggering 19000 kt by 2050.
• State-wise Contribution: Five states – Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh – are projected to contribute around 67% of the waste by 2030, with Rajasthan leading at 24%.
• Critical Minerals Content: Discarded solar modules contain crucial minerals vital for India's economic development and national security, including silicon, copper, tellurium, and cadmium.

Recommendations for Sustainable Management

• MNRE Database Maintenance: The MNRE should maintain an updated database of installed solar capacity for accurate mapping of waste generation centres.
• Guidelines and Promotion: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change should issue guidelines for collecting and storing solar waste, promoting safe and efficient processing.
• Producer Responsibility: Solar cell and module producers are urged to develop waste collection and storage centres as per the Electronic Waste Management Rules 2022.

Understanding Solar Waste

• Definition: Solar waste encompasses waste generated during manufacturing or from discarded modules at the end of their functional life.
• Potential Recyclability: Approximately 80% of solar panel components are recyclable, including glass, aluminium, copper, silicon, and silver.

Challenges in Solar Waste Recycling

• Lack of Policy Framework: Absence of comprehensive laws governing solar waste management impedes standardized recycling practices.
• Complex Composition: Solar panels contain diverse materials, necessitating specialized technology for effective separation and recycling.
• Informal Sector Involvement: Involvement of informal recyclers lacking safety measures contributes to environmentally harmful practices.
• Limited Market for Recycled Materials: Inadequate demand for recycled materials undermines the economic viability of recycling efforts.

The report underscores the urgent need for cohesive policies and concerted efforts to address India's burgeoning solar waste crisis and move towards sustainable management practices.