| Solar energy is relatively "clean", although its use could | | | | Not only is this recycling process beneficial for the |
| have some indirect and minimal adverse effects on | | | | environment, it also helps to reduce the fabrication |
| the environment | | | | costs and the energy required to produce new solar |
| The silicon-based photovoltaic cells used to convert | | | | panels. |
| solar energy into electric power can potentially | | | | The estimated lifetime of a photovoltaic module (solar |
| become waste products after they are spent. | | | | cell) is approximately 25 years, so the modules that |
| On the positive side -- there is at least one patent that | | | | are installed today will not reach the end of their useful |
| I am aware of that proposes a method for recovering | | | | life for another 20 to 30 years. This provides the |
| these wastes. More importantly, this initiative shows | | | | industry with a lot of time to develop even more |
| that we are at least learning from past mistakes. No | | | | efficient recycling processes. |
| one contemplated cleanup or recovery efforts when | | | | Currently, other than damage caused by transport and |
| fossil fuels first gained popularity. | | | | installation, solar panels present very little chance of |
| And still, an even brighter prospect is on the horizon; | | | | waste or environmental damage. This presents a far |
| the prospect of recyclable components. It should be | | | | more promising prospect than fossil fuels ever could. |
| noted that all the components (aluminum frames, glass, | | | | Solar cells provide "clean" energy and are capable of |
| cables, and PV wafers) of a solar module can be | | | | leaving a very small environmental footprint. |
| recycled. | | | | |