Ask Onix
India's solar expansion faces growing waste challenge
India's rapid shift to solar energy has positioned it as the world's third-largest producer, but the country lacks a plan to handle the mounting waste from discarded panels, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of its clean energy transition.
Solar growth and its hidden costs
Over the past decade, solar power has become a cornerstone of India's climate strategy, with installations ranging from sprawling solar parks to rooftop systems in urban and rural areas. Government figures show nearly 2.4 million households have adopted solar under a subsidy program, reducing reliance on coal-though fossil fuels still account for over half of the country's energy capacity.
While solar panels generate clean electricity, they contain materials like glass, aluminum, and polymers, along with trace toxic metals such as lead and cadmium. If not properly recycled, these components can leach into soil and water, posing environmental risks.
Looming waste crisis
Solar panels typically last 25 years before requiring replacement. India currently lacks a dedicated budget for recycling and has only a handful of small facilities to process old panels. Official data on solar waste is nonexistent, but a study projects the country could generate 100,000 tonnes by 2023, escalating to 600,000 tonnes by 2030.
A report by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) estimates India could face over 11 million tonnes of solar waste by 2047, requiring nearly 300 recycling plants and an investment of $478 million over two decades.
"Most large solar parks were built in the mid-2010s, so the real wave of waste is coming in 10 to 15 years," says Rohit Pahwa of energy firm Targray.
Rohit Pahwa, Targray
Global comparisons and policy gaps
India's solar waste projections align with global trends. The U.S. may produce 170,000 to 1 million tonnes by 2030, while China could reach nearly 1 million tonnes. However, policy approaches differ: the U.S. relies on market-driven state regulations, whereas China and India are still developing frameworks.
In 2022, India classified solar panels as e-waste, making manufacturers responsible for collection and recycling. Yet enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly for small-scale and household installations, which account for 5-10% of the total but are harder to track.
Environmental risks and economic opportunities
Discarded panels often end up in landfills or with unauthorized recyclers, where unsafe practices can release toxins. Environment expert Sai Bhaskar Reddy Nakka warns that without a robust recycling plan, "clean energy today could mean more waste tomorrow."
Despite the challenges, experts see potential in recycling. CEEW estimates efficient processing could recover 38% of materials for new panels by 2047 and avoid 37 million tonnes of carbon emissions from mining. Markets already exist for glass and aluminum, while metals like silicon, silver, and copper could be repurposed for other industries.
"As waste rises, so will demand for companies that know how to process it," says Pahwa.
Rohit Pahwa, Targay
Call for urgent action
Experts stress the next decade will be critical for India's solar ambitions. Key steps include building a regulated recycling system, raising public awareness, and integrating waste management into solar business models. Nakka argues that companies profiting from solar should bear responsibility for panel disposal.
India's renewable energy ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment.
