SOLAR WASTE (Syllabus GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: According to a recently published study, India recently generated approximately 100 kilotonnes (kt) of solar waste in the financial year (FY) 2022-2023.

Solar Waste

• About: Solar waste encompasses waste from both manufacturing processes and the field, as highlighted in the study.
• Manufacturing Waste Streams: Manufacturing waste comprises scrap production and waste from PV modules failing quality tests.
• Field Waste Streams:

oTransport and handling-related waste, incorporating damaged modules.

oWaste resulting from damage incurred during the operational lifetime of solar modules.

oEnd-of-life waste when modules are no longer functional.

Findings of the Study

• Projected Increase in Solar Capacity: By 2030, India's current installed solar capacity is estimated to triple, generating about 340 kt of waste.
• Concentration of Solar Waste in Five States: Approximately 67% of this waste is expected to be produced by Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh due to their higher solar capacity.
• Expansion Plans of Renewable Energy-Rich States: These states, with significant solar capacity, intend to extensively expand their solar capacity in line with India's 500 GW renewable energy target.
• Higher Quantum of Waste Production: Consequently, the rate of producing solar waste will be notably higher in these states as they contribute the majority of GWs towards India's renewable energy goals.
• Cumulative Waste Projections: The study projects that the cumulative waste, including existing and new capacity deployed between FY24 and FY30, will reach about 600 kt by 2030.
• Long-Term Waste Projection: By 2050, the cumulative waste is expected to escalate to about 19,000 kt, with 77% of it generated from new capacities.