Advancing Sustainability in the Spanish Photovoltaic Value Chain: A Life-Cycle Analysis Using the Infinite Framework

While the expansion of solar photovoltaics (PV) seems unstoppable due to the pressing challenges of global warming and resource constraints, achieving truly sustainable development in this sector remains uncertain. This paper analyzes the PV module value chain in Spain, applying the recently developed Infinite Framework to assess the environmental, social, economic, and governance impacts across the sector. Adopting a life-cycle thinking approach, the paper utilizes the framework's Diagnosis phase to identify key hotspots throughout the value chain, including manufacturing, installation, use, and end-of-life stages. The findings reveal several significant challenges, such as the energy-intensive silicon production process, environmental concerns linked to large-scale utility installations, the depletion of critical materials like silver, and the lack of effective recycling infrastructure. These challenges are further exacerbated by insufficient public acceptance and a shortage of skilled labor for installation and maintenance. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring long-term sustainability and fostering continuous improvement within the PV industry. By tackling these challenges, Spain can play a pivotal role in the global transition to renewable energy and advance the development of a circular economy within the PV sector.