Sustainability, Vol. 17, Pages 2842: Assessing the Environmental Impact of PV Emissions and Sustainability Challenges

Sustainability doi: 10.3390/su17072842

Authors:
Abderrahim Lakhouit
Nada Alhathlaul
Chakib El Mokhi
Hanaa Hachimi

The aim of this study is to evaluate the environmental impact of solar energy by analyzing its emissions, resource consumption, and waste generation throughout its life cycle. As one of the most widely adopted energy sources, solar power offers substantial benefits in reducing greenhouse gas emissions; however, its broader environmental footprint requires careful examination. The production, operation, and disposal of solar panels contribute to pollution, water consumption, and hazardous waste accumulation, with an estimated 250,000 tons of solar waste reported in 2016 alone. Furthermore, solar power generation requires significant water resources, averaging 650 gallons per megawatt-hour of electricity. A key focus of this study is the emissions associated with solar technology, particularly during panel manufacturing and operation. Using HOMER Pro software, this research quantifies the emissions from Trina Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels (345 Wp), revealing an annual output of 49,259 kg of carbon dioxide, 214 kg of sulfur dioxide, and 104 kg of nitrogen dioxide. This Study obtained using HOMER Pro primarily account for operational emissions and do not include full lifecycle impacts such as raw material extraction, transportation, and disposal. These findings highlight the trade-offs between solar energy’s environmental advantages and its indirect ecological costs. While solar systems contribute to energy security and long-term economic savings, their environmental implications must be factored into energy planning and sustainability strategies. This study underscores the importance of developing greener manufacturing processes, improving recycling strategies, and optimizing solar farm operations to reduce emissions and resource depletion. By providing a comprehensive assessment of solar energy’s environmental impact, this research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders seeking to balance the benefits of solar power with sustainable environmental management.

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Abderrahim Lakhouit www.mdpi.com