There are rumours that manufacturing solar panels produces more greenhouse gases than the panels save over their lifetime. Simply put, this is false.
Like any manufactured product, there is some carbon that is emitted when solar panels are made. This is sometimes called “carbon debt”. However, studies such as one carried out by Nature Energy have looked into this very issue, and the evidence shows that over their lifespan, solar panels repay their carbon debt several times over. That’s why solar is seen as an essential part of the government’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions.
Also, contrary to what many people believe, solar panels can be recycled at the end of their lifecycle, meaning that waste is kept out of landfills, and the materials can be reused for other purposes.