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A blockchain-enabled circular economy framework for lifecycle optimization and incentivized recycling of solar panels

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  • Vishwakarma, Amit
  • Acquaye, Adolf
  • Gunasekaran, Angappa
  • Sharma, Rohit
  • Khakdaman, Masoud

Abstract

The rapid global adoption of solar photovoltaics brings both environmental benefits and end-of-life sustainability challenges. Current solar panel lifecycle management suffers from low recycling rates, limited traceability, and fragmented stakeholder coordination. This paper proposes a blockchain-enabled Circular Economy (CE) framework that integrates Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and smart contracts to enhance lifecycle traceability, incentivize recycling, and facilitate peer-to-peer trading of refurbished components. Blockchain ensures secure, transparent asset tracking, while IoT and AI enable predictive maintenance and lifecycle optimization. Smart contracts automate rewards for responsible recycling, aligning stakeholder incentives. A case study involving 975 kg of solar panels demonstrates 3237 kg of verified carbon savings at 83% recycling efficiency, with outcomes securely recorded via Ethereum and Interplanetary File System (IPFS). The framework offers a scalable digital infrastructure for lifecycle sustainability and regulatory compliance through privacy-preserving audits. This research lays the groundwork for integrating carbon credit markets and decentralized governance into the renewable energy circular economy.

Suggested Citation

  • Vishwakarma, Amit & Acquaye, Adolf & Gunasekaran, Angappa & Sharma, Rohit & Khakdaman, Masoud, 2026. "A blockchain-enabled circular economy framework for lifecycle optimization and incentivized recycling of solar panels," International Journal of Production Economics, Elsevier, vol. 299(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:proeco:v:299:y:2026:i:c:s0925527326001970
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpe.2026.110106
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