Using solar energy can have a positive, indirect effect on the environment when solar energy replaces or reduces the use of other energy sources that have larger effects on the environment. However, producing and using solar energy technologies may have some environmental affects.
Although extensive research has been carried out on the environmental impact of PV, but very few studies exist as a review that covers the effect during the whole PV lifetime cycle. Accordingly, this review addresses comprehensively, all the key environmental impacts associated with solar PV power generation.
It is a “carbon-free” energy source that, once built, produces none of the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving climate change. There are several ways to turn sunlight into usable energy, but almost all solar energy today comes from “solar photovoltaics (PV).”
Once out of the manufacturing phase and fully installed, PV systems are completely safe to the environment; they do not produce any noise, nor emit any toxic or greenhouse gases. But just like any industrial product, the manufacturing of solar cells and panels has some health and environmental impacts.
But just like any industrial product, the manufacturing of solar cells and panels has some health and environmental impacts. Harmful and flammable materials are used in the manufacturing process, although in small quantities, but can still involve environmental and industrial risks.
U.S. environmental laws regulate the use and disposal of hazardous materials. The U.S. Department of Energy is supporting various efforts to address end-of-life issues related to solar energy technologies, including recovering and recycling materials used to manufacture PV cells and panels.