Description
The swift global adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has dramatically improved access to renewable energy and curtailed greenhouse gas emissions. The expansion is also ushering in a daunting problem: the disposal of end-of-life (EoL) solar photovoltaic panels. Global photovoltaic waste is likely to reach more than 78 million tonnes by 2050, Kenya is yet to acquire proper recycling infrastructure to stem it. These difficulties erode environmental sustainability and cut at the foundation of long-term viability for renewable energy transitions. This research aims to model a circular economy which is tailored for sustainable management of EoL of solar photovoltaic modules under variable environmental and infrastructural conditions in Kenya. The modelling is based on circular economy principles: refuse, reduce and rethink. The main objective will focus on modelling of a circular economy for the sustainable management of end-of life photovoltaic modules in Kenya. A multi-phase methodology will guide the research whereby;the first phase will quantify the CO2 emissions by solar PV modules throughout their lifecycle. A practical emissions profile for PV modules that are widely used in Kenya will be built by combining literature review, meta-analysis of emission factors, and local data collection. Opportunities seeking for carbon reduction are explored through strategies such as; refuse, reduce, and rethink which will be integrated with regenerative energy in manufacturing, logistics, and operation. In phase two, the study performs diagnostic analysis of EoL PV modules which will identify degradation patterns and develop and test repair and refurbishment procedures, as well as engage with stakeholders for demonstrating logistical and market feasibility for reuse. The third phase involves modelling and simulation of the performance and impacts of varied circular economy strategies which integrates real costs, energy generation data, and approximated financial returns with a view to estimating payback periods to ensure these economic models are reliable; Study will carry out sensitivity and uncertainty analyses. Economic viability will be assessed and contrasted across different management scenarios. By the integration of the technical, economic, and policy dimensions, the research aims to present an integrated, evidence-based model and standard for Kenya’s sustainable end-of-life management of PV modules.
| Title | MODELLING OF A CIRCULAR ECONOMY FOR THE SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES IN KENYA |
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