India is considering a landmark National Solar Panel Recycling & Recovery Policy for 2026 as the country prepares for the first major wave of end-of-life solar modules. According to early discussions reviewed by SolSetu, the policy would define strict rules for recycling, material recovery, and safe disposal of old and damaged solar panels.

With India expected to cross 200 GW of installed solar capacity in the next few years, experts say a recycling framework is now essential to prevent future waste management challenges.

Why India Needs a Solar Recycling Policy Now

Most solar panels have a lifespan of 20–25 years. Panels installed between 2010 and 2015 are now entering their first degradation cycle, increasing the need for structured recycling.

A senior MNRE official told SolSetu, “Recycling will unlock valuable materials like glass, aluminum, silver, and silicon, while reducing landfill pressure.”

Key Features Under Review

The proposed policy may introduce:

• Mandatory recycling of panels after end-of-life
• Certified solar recycling centers across India
• Material recovery standards for glass, silver, and silicon
• Buy-back or take-back programs by manufacturers
• Digital tracking of installed panels through serial numbers
• Penalties for unsafe disposal of photovoltaic modules

This would make India one of the few nations globally with a comprehensive recycling mandate for PV modules.

Industry Response

Solar EPC companies and manufacturers have welcomed the proposal, noting that structured recycling will open a new circular economy sector with major growth potential.

Several companies are already planning to invest in automated dismantling lines and waste-to-resource recycling plants.

Expected Rollout Timeline

If approved, the policy may be released in mid-2026, with phased implementation over the next three years.

SolSetu will continue tracking updates and report once MNRE finalizes the national framework.