MNRE likely to make glass recycling for solar power developers mandatory

Under a new framework MNRE is looking to make mandatory for solar power developers to follow glass recycling procedure for solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.

In January this year NGT directed the MNRE to prepare a policy for the management of Antimony present in solar glass panels. Globally Antimony Containing Solar Panel Glass (ACSPG) is used to improve the stability of the solar performance of the glass upon exposure to ultraviolet radiation and sunlight.

The ministry in a concept note said “Producers may be made responsible for ensuring recycling of end-of-life glass panels as part of their extended responsibility as in the case of e-waste which covers used lead-acid batteries, packaging material,” It also added “ the power generators will have to ensure environmentally-sound handling of used solar panel waste.”

MNRE made several recommendations in respect to the use of Antimony. In a concept note the ministry mentions that generators may have to set up facilities for safe dismantling of used solar panels or should tie-up with an authorised dismantling facility.

MNRE said until the option for recycling is available the end-of-life solar panels are required to be collected and stored safely, and it should never be disposed or dumped in open landfills as it may release Antimony into the environment.

India has set a target for 100 GW of solar power by 2022; in a bid to achieve the target the country has witnessed large solar PV installations in last few years. These panels will turn into waste over the next 15-20 years. As the glass in the PV panels is reusable at the end of its life, improper disposal may result in the loss of this recyclable material and impact the environment around.

Countries like Germany has developed PV recycling technology and Antimony containing glass may be recycled without affecting its properties said the ministry.

As per the concept note the recycled glass can be used to produce new panels with Antimony containing glass. However, in case unavailability of the recycling facilities the industry should look at the option of disposal in secured landfills or their safe storage.

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