India's solar boom faces a hidden waste problem
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India's rapid expansion of solar energy, now contributing over 20% to its power capacity, faces a growing waste management challenge. While solar power reduces reliance on coal, discarded panels, lasting about 25 years, contain recyclable materials and trace toxic metals that can pollute if mishandled. India currently lacks a dedicated budget and sufficient facilities for solar panel recycling. Estimates suggest India could generate 600,000 tonnes of solar waste by 2030 and over 11 million tonnes by 2047, requiring significant investment in recycling infrastructure. Experts warn that without proactive measures, India risks a waste crisis as the first wave of discarded panels from large solar parks built in the mid-2010s approaches.
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