Hello, fellow solar enthusiasts! Today, I want to delve into an exciting and extremely relevant topic: what happens to solar PV modules at the end of their expected 25-year lifespan? Unsurprisingly, as a popular figure in the solar circles, this question has been on my mind quite a bit and my thoughts often revolve around the sustainable disposal of these modules. In this post, we discuss this issue and explore some insights on the future trends for solar panels for your home.
Now, to begin with, it’s important to understand how far we’ve come. The International Energy Agency remarkably forecasted as early as 2020 that global cumulative installed capacity would surpass 1 TWp by 2025 (PVPS TASK, 2020). And contrary to what one might think, we’re set to hit over 2 TW by the end of 2024! Seeing this as a signal, it is fair to say solar arrays for home and other uses are increasing in popularity.
Solar photovoltaics, along with large-scale onshore wind, are leading the race as the most sustainable and lowest-cost energy conversion technologies, making them a hot topic amidst solar companies. To achieve our global environmental commitments, we must experience approximately a 40-fold increase in solar use.
However, while the exponential growth in solar is exciting, there are certainly concerns about waste from PV modules which will inevitably arise in the future. But before you get worried, let me share something that might ease your mind. Over its lifetime, each kg of a solar panel is responsible for generating approximately 0.9 MWh of power, and this can save about 900 kg of carbon dioxide emissions from coal burning!
To farther express this point, let’s consider a scenario where 10 billion people require 100 TW of solar PV. In this scenario, 400 W/person of solar modules will retire each year, generating approximately 16 kg of solar module waste per person per year. Sounds like a lot, right? Well, consider the fact that the current annual solid waste per person in the USA is around 800 kg. Suddenly, that 16 kg doesn’t seem so big.
Of course, we should still strive to reduce waste wherever possible, and after their 25-year lifetime these retired solar panels certainly don’t need to go straight to the landfill. In fact, there’s an alternative – a second life for your solar PV modules!
Solar panels for your homes, when retired, still possess considerable power generating capabilities. Studies indicate a photovoltaic module efficiency loss ranging from 0.4% to 5% each year. This means, even after their prescribed 25-year lifespan, these modules can still be of significant use.
One of the biggest barriers to the adoption of solar energy is the initial cost. Second-life solar panels can effectively lower the costs, making solar a more attractive and accessible option for many.
Solar company advancements have played a major role in increasing PV module power, which in turn means new panels can also be mounted on existing support structures or trackers to generate more power.
Honestly, the potential of solar is massively robust. We just need to start considering solar as a circular economy. Looking at a solar cycle divided into reuse, a second life, and finally, recycling, can contribute to a more sustainable future and bolster the reputation of solar companies globally.
After all, the goal isn’t just to generate cleaner and greener energy. It’s also about doing it sustainably, with a mindful eye towards how we manage our resources.
This fascinating topic is ever-expanding, with many more aspects to explore. I’ll delve into other dimensions in future posts. Until then, let your solar journey shine brightly!
#solar #solarpanels #greenenergy #sustainability #solarenergy #solarpanelsforyourhome #solararrayforhome
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/09/20/circular-economy-and-solar-photovoltaics-is-there-a-case-for-second-life-pv-modules/
