According to a newly released report, solar panels may release five times more carbon dioxide than previously believed. The report, conducted by an Italian researcher, reveals that the database used by global institutions to calculate carbon footprint projections does not include emissions from China, which is responsible for 80% of the world’s solar panel production. Chinese manufacturers rely heavily on coal-burning plants, thus lowering the cost of solar technology for Western countries. Without data from China, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) claims that solar photovoltaic (PV) industry emissions are approximately 48 gCO2/kWh. However, the new analysis suggests that the number could be closer to 170 and 250 gCO2/kWh, making it 62.5% as carbon-intensive as natural gas electricity generation.
The report, prepared by Italian researcher Enrico Mariutti, highlights a discrepancy in the data provided by Ecoinvent, which was identified two years ago. Mariutti explains that standard variables for life cycle analysis of PV energy yield an estimate of around 100 gCO2/kWh. However, previous studies fail to consider crucial variables like methane emissions, albedo, grid upgrades, storage, and transport, which significantly contribute to increased carbon intensity.
Furthermore, a researcher at the Center for International Climate Research in Oslo, Robbie Andrew, questions whether the environmental impact of China’s carbon emissions is justified by the low cost of solar power. The majority of solar cells are made of silicon semiconductors, glass, and metals like silver, copper, indium, and tellurium. While gathering silicon and glass has little environmental impact, mining metals results in greenhouse gas emissions and pollution of soil, water, and air.
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) has set a target for solar energy to account for 30% of energy generation in the US by 2030. However, if this target is met, the US will heavily depend on solar panels from China, potentially resulting in up to 18 billion tons of additional carbon emissions related to the PV industry by 2040.
A study conducted by scientists at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado reveals that emissions per module produced are higher in China than in the US for different types of solar cells. The dominance of China in the PV industry raises concerns about its impact on global carbon emissions. The International Energy Agency (IEA) anticipates that the world will heavily rely on China for key building blocks of solar panel production.
The rise of China in the solar panel manufacturing industry is remarkable, as it surpassed countries like the US, Japan, and Germany. However, regulations on coal use have hindered the progress of these three powerhouses, allowing China to take the lead. Chinese firms heavily rely on coal-powered electricity in Xinjiang to manufacture critical raw materials like polysilicon.
Mariutti’s research highlights a significant issue with solar data, as many studies fail to recognize the shift of the industry to China. The lack of accurate calculations and transparency regarding factors such as silicon mining, toxic panel waste, and the albedo effect raises concerns about the true carbon footprint of solar panels. A quick transition to solar energy without comprehensive proof of its benefits and reliance on Chinese manufacturing could have significant consequences.
Critics of Mariutti’s claims argue that his calculations are inaccurate. However, there are broader concerns regarding China’s use of slave labor in the manufacturing of solar panels. This raises ethical questions about importing solar panels from China and the moral responsibility of other countries.
In conclusion, the report sheds light on the potential carbon emissions associated with solar panel production, which may be significantly higher than previously estimated. China’s dominance in the PV industry, coupled with its reliance on coal-burning plants, contributes to these emissions. Adequate calculations and transparency are necessary to determine the true environmental impact of solar panels and ensure a sustainable transition to renewable energy sources.
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