Assessing the Environmental Impact of Recycling End-of-Life Solar Panels: A Case Study of the Sunshine Coast Solar Farm

This paper analyzes the environmental impact of recycling end-of-life solar PV panels from the Sunshine Coast Solar Farm in Queensland. By quantifying the mass of recovered materials and emissions produced, the study identifies the potential for substantial emissions savings through recycling compared to landfilling. The results indicate that recycling generates significantly lower emissions and can mitigate $1,017,410.6 \mathrm{~kg}$ of CO2-e emissions. These findings emphasize the importance of sustainable waste management practices in maximizing the environmental benefits of solar PV systems.