SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL AND ECONOMIC PROBLEMS OF SOLAR PANELS RECYCLING
Abstract
The use of alternative energy sources, in particular solar energy, has gained rapid growth in recent years. This trend is prompting manufacturers of equipment for solar power plants to increase production volumes. At the same time, the question arises of the disposal of used modules, because each material has its service life. According to technical specifications, the average life of solar modules and batteries is 25- 30 years. Decommissioning may occur earlier than this time due to the following reasons – moral and physical deterioration, mechanical damage, replacement of obsolete equipment with new, modernization of solar power plants. Already in 2030, it will be necessary to replace the solar modules installed in 2000. Therefore, there are acute questions not only regarding the development of technologies for processing waste equipment from solar power plants but also organizational and economic methods. This article discusses the main problems that arise during the utilization and recycling of solar modules, analyzes the experience of countries in resolving these issues. After all, the use of renewable energy sources should minimize the negative impact on the environment from energy production at all stages – from the production of equipment for a power plant to the disposal and recycling of this equipment.
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