Evaluating the Environmental and Energy Implications of Solar Panel Recycling in India: A Sustainability Assessment

Solar panel recycling is crucial for resource conservation, economic opportunities, and environmental impact reduction. Among different recycling methods, this study finds mechanical recycling to be most suitable for India, efficiently recovering valuable materials like silicon, silver, and cadmium/tellurium. Various recycling methods used globally were reviewed, however we specifically explore India’s context , where by 2030, solar panel waste is projected to reach 340,000 tons, highlighting the urgent need for effective recycling strategies. Our study shows that mechanical recycling can recover 85% of silicon, 70% of silver, and 60% of cadmium/tellurium, with estimated costs of ₹22/kg for silicon, ₹90,000/kg for silver, and ₹150,000/kg for cadmium/tellurium. Embracing these methods could reduce imports, benefitting both the economy and the environment.