Recycling solar panels refers to the recovery of materials from decommissioned photovoltaic (PV) modules to be reused in the manufacture of new products or other industrial applications. Since the adoption of solar energy is on the increase, many panels will eventually become obsolete after 20-30 years. This is a call for responsible recycling of such panels not to end up in landfills and to contribute to reducing harm to the environment, promoting a circular economy. This paper discusses recycling solar panels, the associated benefits, and the setbacks Australia experiences in developing viable systems to manage solar waste.

1. The Emerging Concern of PV Waste

1.1 Expected Increase in PV Waste

• Projected Growth: The installation of many solar systems in the early 2000s is approaching the end of their life cycle, and therefore, PV waste is projected to grow.
• Global Waste Projection: IRENA has estimated that PV waste is set to reach 78 million tonnes by 2050. Using a more conservative estimate assuming a 30-year lifetime (Regular-loss scenario), the estimate for global waste is likely to be around 60 million tonnes.
• Local Situation: Australia generates around 67 million tonnes of annual waste. PV waste can have a devastating impact on national waste management systems without proper planning.

1.2 Environmental and Health Concerns

• Landfill Threat: In case PV modules are not disposed of in the proper manner, these may eventually reach the landfills where toxic chemicals like lead, cadmium, and other metals will probably leach into the surroundings.
• Policy Gaps: Australia lacks holistic policies related to PV waste; this calls for an implementation strategy that prevents environmental degradation.

2. Advantages of Recycling Solar Panels

2.1 Environmental and Economic Benefits

• Material Recovery: Up to 90% of materials in PV modules can be recycled by weight. These are glass, aluminum, as well as valuable metals including silver and copper.
• Circular Economy: Recycling of the solar panels contributes to circular economy by recovering material and reducing demand for virgin sources.
• Economic Potential: IRENA projects USD 15 billion from recycled raw materials globally from 2050 through recycling PV waste.

2.2 Job Generation and Industry Growth

• Green Jobs: Recycling activities will generate new employment opportunities in the green industry, stimulating local economies.
• Other Parts: In addition to photovoltaic modules, recycling facilities can handle inverters, batteries, and other system parts, thereby further increasing economic activities.

3. Solar Panel Design and Recyclable Materials

3.1 General Design

• Aluminum Frame: Almost completely recyclable.
• Glass: This makes up about 70-80% of the module, and it is relatively easy to recover.
• Solar Cells: Silicon-based cells require the more complex recycling processes.
• Plastics: Encapsulant materials and backsheets add to the complexity of the recycling process.
• Metals: Precious and toxic metals, such as silver, lead, and cadmium, must be recovered with care.

3.2 Recycling Potential

• Crystalline Silicon Modules: The recovery can be up to 90%.
• Non-Silicon-Based Modules: Recovery becomes even more important, sometimes up to 98%.

4. Current Challenges in Recycling

4.1 Technical and Economic Barriers

• High Recycling Costs: The separation and reclaiming of silicon and metals from encapsulated panels is a complex and costly process.
• Logistical Issues: Costs associated with uninstallation and transportation to recycling facilities are significant.
• Limited Infrastructure: The recycling industry for PV modules in Australia is still nascent, requiring further development.

4.2 Immature Technology

5. Current Waste Disposal and Recycling Programs

5.1 Global and National Programs

• International Programs: The European Union is ahead with its WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive, which mandates that the manufacturers fund the recycling of PV modules.
• Australian Programs:
• Recover PV Recycling: The company located in Adelaide retrieves between 1,000 modules weekly and collaborates with Tier 1 manufacturers as well as certified electricians.
• E-Waste Ban Victoria: Since July 2019, the government banned the disposal of e-waste in landfills, having invested $16.5 million in enhancing collection facilities.

5.2 Industry Examples

• First Solar: A manufacturer who works using non-crystalline technology has led efforts in recycling programs.
• State-Based Programs: Several states of Australia are beginning to act, but there still exists a need for nationwide concerted efforts.

6. Future of Australia

6.1 Policy and Framework Design

• Regulatory Measure: Implementing PV specific legislation like that of EU WEEE Directive would prevent inappropriate disposal and recycling of waste.
• Product Stewardship Act: The agenda includes the inclusion of modules in PV. This means the proper handling and recycling of waste would be duly followed.

6.2 Collaboration with Stakeholders

• Pooling Resources: Government, industry, and research institutions must collaborate to develop efficient recycling technologies.
• Leveraging Existing Programs: The National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme may serve as a model for PV waste management.

6.3 Research and Development