Project Summary: 

Solar Photovoltaic (PV) installation has surged at remarkable rates around 4%-14% of the total installation by 2030, and approximately 80% by 2050 of the total installation. End-of-Life (EOL) solar panels will be a worldwide problem soon mainly due to this strong uptake in solar energy and the necessity of disposing solar panel waste as these materials are hazardous. Circular Economy (CE) is one of the best solutions to manage solar Photovoltaic (PV) waste. However, ineffective tracking and lack of financial incentives lead to most solar panel waste ending up in landfills, limiting recycling. Blockchain is an effective digital technology that can be used in CE for enhancing the circularity of EOL solar panels. This technology has the potential to provide an unchangeable and transparent record of solar panel components, allowing for the tracking of each part from manufacturing to final disposal. Therefore, blockchain is a great tool for promoting the circularity of EOL solar panels and this research aims to develop a prototype blockchain system that can address this issue. 

First, this research identifies benefits and drawbacks of using blockchain to manage EOL solar panels through a comprehensive literature review. Through that, this study bridges the gap between EOL management of solar PV and circular economy principles. Next, a conceptual framework is developed to map the stakeholders, blockchain integration and data flow within solar panel supply chain, providing a foundation for blockchain data model development. A multi-method qualitative approach is employed for this research, utilising expert interviews and case studies. A prototype blockchain system will be introduced for tracking the lifecycle of PV materials, improving data integrity, and facilitating stakeholder collaboration in waste management. Further, this research provides practical solutions that can be implemented by manufacturers, recyclers, suppliers, regulatory bodies and energy companies to optimise EOL solar panel processes. Ultimately, the research outcomes will align with United Nations Sustainable Ultimately, the research outcomes will align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as,  

-ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all (SDG 07) 

-build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation (SDG 09) 

-make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable (SDG 11) 

-ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns (SDG 12) by enhancing innovation, sustainability, and ethical resource management in the construction industry.