MIT-WPU Team Creates Solar PV Waste Recycling Process with ₹25 Lakh Grant
MIT-WPU researchers secure ₹25 lakh grant to pioneer solar PV waste recycling, turning panel waste into valuable resources and construction products.
New Delhi | 7, October 2025 : India is expanding solar power at a rapid pace. However, this growth also creates a major problem — solar panel waste. By 2030, the country may face 200,000 tons of PV waste. By 2050, it could reach 1.8 million tons.
To tackle this, MIT-WPU solar PV waste recycling researchers have designed a scalable solution. The process recovers valuable materials and turns other waste into useful products. As a result, solar energy becomes cleaner and more sustainable.
Strong Support from Maharashtra
The Rajiv Gandhi Science & Technology Commission (RGSTC), Government of Maharashtra, has granted ₹25 lakh for the project. With this support, the MIT-WPU team can expand trials and move toward large-scale applications.
Recovering Materials and Reducing Waste
Today, most discarded panels are stored or stripped only for aluminum and cables. Therefore, valuable elements like silver, copper, tin, and lead often go to waste.
The new MIT-WPU solar PV waste recycling method changes this. It recovers these materials effectively. In addition, the process upcycles non-recoverable parts into bricks, blocks, and aggregates. Thus, it prevents landfill waste and reduces the need for virgin raw materials.
Linking Energy and Sustainability
This innovation supports India’s clean energy mission. Moreover, it aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals — SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). In short, the project keeps renewable energy truly green.
Voices from the Research Team
Dr. Sarita R. Zele, Professor of Research and Development at MIT-WPU, said:
“Solar power is vital for India’s future. However, solar waste is a growing concern. Our process recovers resources and creates useful building products. Therefore, renewable energy stays clean and responsible.”
Dr. Nivedita Gogate, Associate Professor of Civil Engineering at MIT-WPU, added:
“Our model connects renewable energy with construction. In addition, it saves raw materials and lowers landfill burden. We believe this solution can be scaled across India.”
A Step Toward a Greener Future
India is moving fast toward solar adoption. Meanwhile, waste management must also advance. The MIT-WPU solar PV waste recycling solution offers a practical way forward. It not only recovers resources but also creates value from waste. Therefore, it ensures renewable power remains sustainable for decades.
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