An expert-based evaluation on end-of-life solar photovoltaic management: An application of Fuzzy Delphi Technique

Abstract

The implementation of solar photovoltaic (PV) waste management options is of concern to international bodies, policymakers, and communities as it is not only related to life cycle environmental impacts but the preparation of a long-term plan and its successful implementation. There are insufficient options in Australia when it comes to the appropriate management of hazardous materials from solar PV waste. This study investigates the management of end-of-life (EoL) PV waste in Australia. A modified Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) is adopted in gathering data through interviews and questionnaires from experts in the field. The FDM analysis revealed the results showing the decisions made by the experts. The results show that, crystalline silicon panels were the most common panels on the Australian market and the ones that are being installed frequently. On policies, although the Australian government has banned PV waste from going to landfill since 2014, there were no regulations or action plans to manage PV waste. The absence of policies and regulations results in unregulated movement and tracking of solar PV waste in and out of Australia as well as within and across the states. The extent of the PV recovery and recycling is still under investigation. Moreover, infrastructure and logistics has been a significant problem because of the geographical spread of the country and how it affects transportation and the supply chain. Findings led to the establishment of a conceptual framework for the current treatment of solar PV waste in Australia.