Are there hazards in the solar energy industry?

While solar energy is a growing industry, the hazards are not unique and OSHA has many standards that cover them. This page provides information about some hazards that workers in the solar industry may face. There have been fatalities and incidents in the solar energy industry.

Are solar energy systems harmful to the environment?

Solar energy technologies require materials, such as metals and glass, that are energy intensive to make. The environmental issues related to producing these materials could be associated with solar energy systems.

What are the environmental impacts of solar power?

The potential environmental impacts associated with solar power—land use and habitat loss, water use, and the use of hazardous materials in manufacturing—can vary greatly depending on the technology, which includes two broad categories: photovoltaic (PV) solar cells or concentrating solar thermal plants (CSP).

Do solar PV systems impact the environment?

The previous literature review reveals a well-established environmental impacts assessment of the solar PV systems is crucial. Currently, there is a gap in the literature regarding the impact of different PV system components on the environment.

Is solar a hazard?

Solar is a growing sector for green energy and green jobs. Various worker health and safety hazards exist in the manufacture, installation, and maintenance of solar energy. Employers working in the solar energy business need to protect their workers from workplace hazards and workers need to understand how to protect themselves from hazards.

Are solar panels dangerous?

Some types of PV cell technologies use heavy metals, and these types of cells and PV panels may require special handling when they reach the end of their useful life. Some solar thermal systems use potentially hazardous fluids to transfer heat, and leaks of these materials could be harmful to the environment.