Assessing metal leaching from PV modules dumped in landfill
An Indian Institute of Technology research team analyzed around 300 studies about PV panel waste containing carcinogenic metals. The researchers said solar module recycling is not economically profitable and policy support is necessary to avoid panels being dumped in landfill.
German company Phaesun installs solar-powered water desalination plants in Gujarat
The pilot plants—installed at a temple and a school—work on a membrane-based electrodialysis technology to provide clean drinking water.
European carrier plans hydrogen buses for long-distance routes
German coach company planning start-up Flixbus will test hydrogen fuel cell vehicles on long-distance routes.
E-waste company opens battery recycling plants in Singapore and France
TES issued a press release announcing the new facilities that is light on detail but claimed the plants would position it as ‘a leader’ in battery recycling. The company also announced an intent to move into the reuse of spent electric vehicle batteries in commercial and residential applications.
Siemens to impart skills in renewable energy and e-mobility
The ‘Skills for Sustainable Growth’ project will be implemented by Siemens in partnership with India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and German development agency GIZ.
Lithium batteries – 12 lakh tons ready for recycling by 2030
The recycling market will experience a tenfold expansion between last year and 2030, driven by EV battery usage and portable electronics. Retrieving valuable metals and minerals is becoming a high priority and several dozen companies are already in position for the first big wave of end-of-life batteries.
Goa to roll out 50 electric buses by March
The state bus company had originally sought central government funding for 250 vehicles but was given the green light for the smaller figure. A pre-bid meeting related to the tender is planned on Friday.
Is India ready for solar waste mountain?
Opinion is divided over the urgency of addressing the issue. While some developers feel the 25-year lifetime of modules offers plenty of time to prepare an action plan, other industry voices claim Indian-made products don’t last half that long and one recent report pointed out waste is already piling up thanks to defects and faulty installation.
Jodhpur agrivoltaic pilot project replicated
Research institutes have moved quickly to emulate the successes observed in a test installation at Jodhpur as India races to meet an ambitious target of doubling agricultural income by 2022.
India prepares to embrace agrivoltaics
Take-up has been slow considering the nation’s mammoth agricultural industry but, as a packed session on the topic at the recent REI show illustrated, attitudes may be changing in a nation which is already installing solar greenhouses.
