Solar energy: India's renewable energy boom faces a hidden waste problem

Why in news

The Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) highlighted the growing challenge of managing solar panel waste as India expands its renewable energy capacity.

Background

India is projected to generate over 11 million tonnes of solar waste by 2047. While solar panels are mostly recyclable, the country currently lacks dedicated recycling facilities and sufficient investment to manage the waste volume.

Facts for Prelims

• FactCEEW estimates India could generate over 11 million tonnes of solar waste by 2047
• S&TSolar panels are described as mostly recyclable materials
• BodyCouncil on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) is the body providing the waste estimates

For Mains

Q. Discuss the environmental and logistical challenges posed by solar waste management in India's transition to renewable energy. Suggest a framework for a circular economy in the solar sector.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Infrastructure gap: Lack of dedicated recycling facilities to handle the projected 11 million tonnes of waste by 2047
• Circular economy bottleneck: High investment requirements for recycling technologies to prevent environmental degradation
• Policy-implementation gap: Need for robust waste management systems to align with clean energy goals

Keywords: Circular Economy · Renewable Energy Transition · Waste Management · Environmental Degradation · Sustainable Infrastructure

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