Japan is accelerating the review of waste solar module recycling laws.
Minister of Environment Shintaro Ito announced his position on mandatory recycling of solar modules which have reached the tip of their lifespan at a press conference on the 14th.
He emphasized, “Emissions from waste modules are expected to peak at 500,000 to 800,000 tons per yr within the late 2030s,” and “a planned response to the rise in emissions could be very vital.”
Solar energy generation in Japan has expanded rapidly for the reason that introduction of the fixed price purchase system (FIT) in 2012. Considering the lifespan of a typical solar module, it’s estimated that a considerable amount of waste will likely be produced starting in 2030.
In response, Japan’s Ministry of Environment expressed concern over the shortage of treatment capability at landfills.
He then identified, “Individual recycling laws have already been established for home appliances equivalent to automobiles, air conditioners, and fridges, but these are insufficient for solar modules.” Due to this fact, he said that he’s considering mandating the disposal and recycling of solar modules in the long run.
The Japanese government initially considered submitting a bill this session, but stated that careful discussion was needed as a consequence of various tasks equivalent to establishing a system that may handle a considerable amount of panels and handling hazardous substances.
Environment Minister Shintaro Ito said that by gathering these problems, they’re currently considering establishing a brand new system to make sure the acquisition and delivery of waste modules.
The Japanese government plans to submit a related bill to the regular National Assembly as early as next yr, and has announced plans to speed up discussions after this summer.
Reporter Lee Yu-seon energy@aiitmes.com
