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CPCB Issues Guidelines for Safe Storage and Handling of Solar Waste

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has released Version 1.0 guidelines for storage, handling and transportation of solar PV waste under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.

March 17, 2026. By Mrinmoy Dey

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has released Version 1.0 of its guidelines for the storage, handling and transportation of waste solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, panels and cells, aligning with the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022.

The guidelines aim to ensure environmentally sound management of end-of-life solar waste while safeguarding public health, as India’s solar capacity continues to scale rapidly. The guidelines shall be applicable to the producers, manufacturers, and recyclers of waste solar photovoltaic panels, modules or cells.

Under the framework, solar waste comprising materials such as glass, aluminium, silicon, plastics and metals, including lead and cadmium, must not be dumped in open areas or landfills due to the risk of toxic chemical release. Instead, such waste is required to be channelled through registered recyclers or authorised entities.

The CPCB has mandated that producers and manufacturers establish collection and take-back mechanisms, including designated collection points, consumer outreach systems and linkages with authorised recyclers. Transportation of solar waste must be carried out in covered vehicles and in compliance with hazardous waste regulations where applicable.

On storage, the guidelines prescribe strict norms such as the use of covered, ventilated spaces with impervious flooring to prevent soil and groundwater contamination. Storage of solar waste must be done in a manner that does not lead to breakage of the waste collected and is safe for workers handling such products.

“Considering the leaching potential of metals such as antimony, cadmium, arsenic, lead, selenium, among others, the floor used for storage of Solar Waste shall be non-leachable, impervious to prevent contamination to the groundwater and soil,” noted the CPCB guideline.

It further added that broken or damaged modules must be stored separately in labelled, water-resistant containers, while facilities are required to maintain inventory records, conduct monthly inspections and ensure fire safety and emergency response systems.

Additionally, personnel handling solar waste must be equipped with appropriate protective gear, including gloves, safety footwear and eye protection, to mitigate occupational hazards.

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Policies & Regulations

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CPCB guidelines for handling solar waste

E-Waste Management Rules