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https://www.tnb.com.my/sustainability/esg-stories/

Toxic Emissions & Waste

Sustainable Practices in Solar Energy Management Our approach to solar panel end-of-life management
adheres strictly to the Environmental Quality (Scheduled Waste)
Regulation 2005, entrusting disposal to licensed vendors
Ensuring the longevity and efficiency of solar panels is under the vigilant supervision of the Department of
paramount to TNB’s sustainability ethos. Through meticulous Environment (DOE). This enables regulatory compliance.
monitoring and innovative solutions, TNB mitigates factors
such as vegetation shading and panel degradation.
Additionally, pioneering tools like automated grasscutters A Streamlined Process for Responsible Disposal by
and machine-assisted cleaning exemplify TNB’s dedication to Licensed Vendors
minimising environmental impact while maximising solar
Beyond large-scale initiatives, TNB’s subsidiary, GSPARX, energy output.
has championed renewable energy adoption among the solar
rooftops industry in both residential and commercial Recognising the need to further minimise environmental Storage of Damaged Solar Panels
segments. As of May 2024, with a total of 1,229 residential impact, TNB is developing tools such as automated Damaged solar panels will be stored at the warehouse of the licensed vendor for further
customers and 226 commercial and industrial customers grasscutters and machine-assisted panel cleaning. disposal. Approximately 300 solar panels waste have undergone the disposal exercise
onboard, TNB has empowered communities and businesses Prototyping is underway, and commercialisation plans will with the vendor.
alike to embrace clean energy solutions, with cumulative follow upon successful implementation.
install capacities of over 134.40 MWp. Segregation of Solar Panel Components
Responsible for End-of-Life Management of Solar Damaged panels will be dismantled from their structures and separated. The glass and
metal components for photovoltaic (PV) panels are typically first. The glass is broke down,
Panels and the metal frames are compressed into bundles.

As our solar capacity expands, so does our commitment to Recycling and Disposal Process
managing the end-of-life stages of solar panels. We recognise
the importance of responsible end-of-life management for Following segregation, the glass is disposed of at a designated industrial landfill.
The compressed metal, meanwhile, is sold to a third-party for recycling.
solar panels within a circular economy framework. By
adhering to strict regulatory guidelines and employing the
These projects signify a substantial increase in TNB’s 3Rs principle (Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle), TNB ensures Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Solar Panels
domestic and international RE capacity. As of fiscal year 2023 minimal environmental footprint during decommissioning. For solar panels installed for residential, commercial, industrial, and government clients,
(FY23), our cumulative capacity reached 4,375 MW, marking Furthermore, TNB actively explores avenues for panel we prioritise recycling them for reuse at other TNB sites if there is a suitable site for
re-installation, and the panels are still under warranty and in good condition.
a significant milestone on our journey to secure renewable reusability and recycling, aligning with Malaysia’s ambitious
energy pipeline of 8,300 MW by 2025. This progress aligns target of achieving 70% renewable energy by 2050.
with the Government’s ambition to achieve 20% of the nation’s This stringent approach ensures regulatory compliance but
electricity generation mix from renewable sources by 2025. also mitigates the environmental impact of our operations.

Carbon Management Water Management Biodiversity & Land Use Opportunities in RE Toxic Emissions & Waste
Human Capital Development Health & Safety Labour Rights Supply Chain Management Community Relations Corporate Governance