Photovoltaic panel dismantling environmental impact assessment application form

Are PV modules considered hazardous waste?

The classification of PV modules as hazardous waste or not depends on the threshold values and test procedures in different countries. However, when recycled properly, PV modules are valuable resources that can be retained rather than disposed of. The number of modules put on the market in a year is significant.

Are end-of-life photovoltaic modules hazardous waste?

End-of-life photovoltaic modules can be hazardous wastes if they contain hazardous materials. The main problem arising from this type of waste is the presence of environmentally toxic substances and the poor biodegradability of the waste, which occupies great volumes when landfilled.

Does Second-Life use of PV panels affect environmental impact?

At present, there has been no report on the environmental impacts of the second-life use of waste PV panels. This study focuses on the environmental impact of landfill disposal and recycling. The studies used a range of impact categories to quantify the environmental impact of recycling.

Are end-of-life solar panels a source of hazardous waste?

End-of-life (EOL) solar panels may become a source of hazardous waste although there are enormous benefits globally from the growth in solar power generation. Global installed PV capacity reached around 400 GW at the end of 2017 and is expected to rise further to 4500 GW by 2050.

Will PV module recycling compete with landfill disposal?

In the EU, landfill disposal is banned. However, if such legislation does not exist, like in North America, PV module recycling will compete with landfill disposal due to lower costs. The value of secondary material is expected to decrease as manufacturers develop modules using less material or less expensive material to reduce production costs.

What are the two types of PV module dismantling?

Two types of PV module dismantling are distinguished: (1) for PV power plants (large scale), and (2) for BIPV and small home system applications (small scale). As discussed in Section 4.1, utility size PV plants dominate the installed capacity in North America.