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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Centre on the improper disposal and recycling of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels.

The green body was hearing a letter petition filed by a farmer in Uttar Pradesh claiming a lack of proper disposal facilities for used solar panels.

About photovoltaic (PV) solar panels

Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology converts sunlight directly into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The term "photovoltaics" is derived from the conversion of light (photons) into electricity (voltage), a phenomenon known as the photovoltaic effect.

• PV cells are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon. When sunlight hits the cell, electrons are released from the atoms and generate electricity.
• Grid-connected systems feed excess electricity back into the grid.
• In many regions, photovoltaic systems are being deployed on a large scale to help power the electricity grid.
• Methods: PV systems come with small rooftop solar installations, solar pumps, off-grid lighting systems and large solar power plants.
• Cost-Effective: The cost of PV systems has dropped dramatically, making solar energy cost-competitive.
  • • With weatherproof panels and no moving parts, PV systems require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan.
• Disadvantage: Solar PV production depends on sunny weather and output varies throughout the day.

Challenges particular to India

• India faces challenges in the collection, storage, recycling and reuse of PV waste.
• Generally, only about 20% of the waste is used and the rest is handled informally, leading to environmental pollution.
• Gaps in photovoltaic waste management
  • • Generalized as e-waste: Pooling PV waste with other e-waste could lead to confusion and specific provisions for the treatment of PV waste are needed within the e-waste directives.
    • Risks are ignored: PV waste is classified as hazardous waste in India and there is a need for India-wide sensitization and awareness programs on PV waste management.

Current challenges in the field of recycling

• Recycling PV panels faces challenges. Scrap dealers typically only accept certain components such as aluminum, copper, and glass.
• The remaining materials including polymers and silicon are often non-recyclable.
• This restriction creates a large volume of waste that ends up in landfills, worsening the impact on the environment.

Legal framework and compliance issues

• The NGT has called for compliance with the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.
• These rules are designed to manage e-waste including solar panels.
• The tribunal sought responses from the Union of India and other stakeholders to address gaps in enforcement and regulation.
• The lack of mechanisms in place for safe disposal means there is a need for stricter compliance and better infrastructure.

The need for organized disposal systems

• There is an urgent need for a structured system for the disposal and recycling of photovoltaic solar panels. An organized approach would ensure the safe handling of hazardous materials.
• It would also encourage recycling practices that minimize waste.
• The development of such systems will require collaboration between government authorities, industry stakeholders, and local communities.

Future directions

• India needs to pay more attention to domestic R&D efforts as dependence on a single type of module will unevenly deplete certain natural resources.
• It is important to increase the capacity to recycle and recover critical materials.
• This can be achieved by -
  • • The formulation of special provisions for the processing of photovoltaic waste.
    • All India sensitization campaigns and awareness programmes.
    • Supporting domestic research and development efforts.
    • Ensuring appropriate infrastructure and adequate funding.

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Solar Photovoltaic Modules, Manufacturers India 

Source:

The Hindu