An adaptive methodology for determining the optimal transition point and reuse lifespan of photovoltaic panels considering degradation-adjusted energy yield

End-of-Life (EoL) management of Photovoltaic (PV) panels is an emerging concern for waste managers and policymakers, given the high rates of PV deployment worldwide. Existing studies emphasize the benefits of PV recycling, but there are few assessments of panel reuse. Identification of the appropriate transition point from reuse to recycling that balances economic and environmental trade-offs is much needed. Studies that do engage with this domain fail to account for the operational and maintenance (O&M) and EoL costs incurred during the reuse phase. With the aims of sustainable waste management, the present study develops a dynamic techno-economic and environmental optimization framework for PV reuse, based on a scalarized multi-objective analysis, referred to as the Reuse Time Span Optimization Model (RTOM). RTOM integrates degradation-adjusted energy generation and monetized environmental benefits into an economic optimization model while accounting for O&M and EoL costs. Results indicate that, after a first life of 25 years, PV panels can be optimally reused for up to 13 years, yielding substantial net benefits. It shows that reuse boosts PV panel benefits by eight times (8×) compared to recycling. The study concludes that reuse is beneficial only within an optimal reuse duration; beyond which, it is no longer advantageous. A Monte Carlo-based sensitivity analysis is used to capture parameter uncertainty and evaluate robustness. The developed RTOM is a decision-support framework that is adaptable and transferable by modifying region-specific parameters. Overall, this work advances the discourse on PV waste management by repositioning reuse as a viable and preferable strategy.