Closing The Loop For Sustainable Practices In Solar

The solar energy sector has emerged as a revolutionary solution to the energy crisis. The sector is growing at an unprecedented pace and is charting a course towards a cleaner and more ecologically sustainable future amidst the pressing need for viable solutions in the age of climate change and dwindling natural resources.

For instance, the solar photovoltaic industry is witnessing a remarkable expansion worldwide. India is ranked fourth globally in ground-mounted photovoltaic deployment. However, this growth has also posed a significant challenge. Beyond harnessing solar energy, the industry is now confronting the challenges of managing the entire lifecycle of solar products.

In response to these challenges, the concept of the circular economy has gained prominence as an innovative framework guiding businesses towards heightened sustainability.

The notion of the circular economy is rooted in the principles of waste minimisation, enhanced resource efficiency, and the encouragement of prolonged product lifecycles. The circular economy in the solar sector strives to establish a closed-loop system wherein resources, goods, and energy circulate with minimal environmental impact.

Linear Economy:

While solar energy has played a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diminishing reliance on fossil fuels, the conventional linear model, wherein solar panels are manufactured, utilised, and subsequently discarded at the end of their functional life, is posing a serious waste challenge for the industry.

Embracing the principles of the circular economy can revolutionise this approach, steering the industry towards a more sustainable trajectory. In the solar industry, the exponential growth in solar installations has translated into a surge of end-of-life solar panels.

A report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) estimates that by 2050, cumulative global photovoltaic (PV) waste could reach 78 million metric tonnes unless proactive measures are taken. This underscores the urgency of transitioning to a circular economy in solar. 

Product Lifespan:

Data from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) highlights the importance of extending the lifespan of solar panels. The average lifespan of solar panels now ranges from 25 years to around 30 years, owing to advancements in materials and manufacturing processes. Improved maintenance practices and monitoring technologies further contribute to optimal performance throughout the extended lifespan.

As people become more worried about the environment and we run out of natural resources, there's a popular idea of making things last longer. In the renewable energy field, like with solar panels, this idea is well known. Instead of throwing away solar panels after using them once, people are finding ways to make them last longer. This is not just good for the environment; it also makes economic sense. It's a smart move as the world looks for sustainable energy options. 

Closing the loop with data-driven strategies aimed at extending product lifespans, optimising resource use, and ensuring responsible disposal and recycling is gaining traction. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to enhance the longevity of solar panels. 

Recycling and Recovery:

Efficient recycling processes are paramount to closing the loop in a circular economy.

Even though a PV system can produce zero-emission green power for 25–30 years during its operation phase, the total environmental impact must be assessed throughout its entire lifecycle. Low energy consumption and environmentally friendly manufacturing of PV modules are now common practices in the industry.

However, limited attention has been paid to the treatment of the end-of-life PV modules. Silicon, a vital component in solar panels, can be recovered through sophisticated recycling methods. A “cradle-to-grave” study showed that implementing a recycling process at the end-of-life could reduce terrestrial ecotoxicity by 74 percent, human toxicity potential by 26 percent, global warming potential by 24 percent, and acidification by 37 percent over the entire life cycle of a PV module 

Governments and industry stakeholders are increasingly adopting Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks to ensure accountability throughout a product's lifecycle.

Data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics highlights the job creation potential of the circular economy transition. The recycling and refurbishment of solar panels contribute to the growth of green jobs. Additionally, a study by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) suggests that adopting circular economy principles can stimulate economic growth by reducing the environmental impact of production and resource extraction.

While the circular economy paradigm presents immense opportunities, challenges persist. Standardised recycling processes, consumer awareness, and regulatory frameworks are essential components. However, these challenges also serve as catalysts for innovation. Circular economy practices can drive innovation, foster collaboration, and promote the development of new technologies to enhance the circularity of solar products.

For the solar industry, a data-driven transition to a circular economy is not just an idealistic vision but a strategic necessity. Backed by research, empirical evidence, and a commitment to data-driven practices, the solar sector can navigate towards a cleaner and more sustainable future. Integrating circular economy principles is a crucial step towards meeting global energy demands responsibly.

(Aditya Singh Poonia, Founder, Etrica Power.)