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Solar power leads to lead pollution in the environment
Last reviewed: 30.06.2025
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Solar energy has a dark side - especially in developing countries.
Chris Cherry of the University of Tennessee (USA) found that the industry is heavily dependent on lead-acid batteries, which in China and India alone result in the emission of more than 2.4 million tons of lead per year (12 kg per 1 kW in China and 8.5 kg in India).
Lead poisoning causes numerous adverse health effects, including damage to the kidneys, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and reproductive system. In children, blood lead levels have been linked to learning disabilities and hyperactive and aggressive behavior.
According to official government plans for investment in solar energy through 2022, lead pollution will reach a third of current lead production by then (China plans to increase its capacity by 1.6 GW by 2020, and India plans to reach 12 GW by 2022). A huge amount leaks into the environment during mining, smelting, battery manufacturing, and recycling. In China, 33% of lead is lost this way, and in India, 22%.
Incidentally, there have been recent reports of mass lead poisoning in China around battery recycling plants. The country has closed 583 such facilities.
Mr Cherry and his colleagues conclude that governments have forgotten the need to invest in environmental controls for the lead industry, 80% of which is consumed by the battery industry.
Researchers believe that solar energy should set an example for others: its entire philosophy encourages this.
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