Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of photovoltaic panels: A review

Abstract

Abstract The environmental impact of photovoltaic panels (PVs) is an extensively studied topic, generally assessed using the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) methodology. Due to this large amount of papers, a review seems necessary to have a clear view of the work already done and what is still to be done. The objective of this paper is to present an accurate overview of the LCA already performed on PVs. The analyses are classified by panel type and by impact assessment methodology. When available the information relative to the PV system (efficiency, localization, etc.) is also summarized. The following main observations are noted: • Silicon panels are the mostly studied, thin layers on a lesser extent, while new panel types, such as organic, are not yet considered. • Regarding the study scope, Balance Of System (BOS) components, although influential, are often omitted and their characteristics (efficiency, etc.) are sometimes not provided. This is the same for the End of life. • Most studies focus on energy related indicators such as the Energy Payback Time (EPBT) and indicators relative to climate change such as CO2 emissions. When impact assessment methodologies are used, it is generally Eco-Indicator99 and sometimes CML. But, results are, unfortunately, sometimes expressed only after normalization Finally, this review underlines the necessity to achieve further LCA on photovoltaic panels, as many aspects are still in need of evaluation, such as the electronic properties of the panel or BOS components.