The Mekong region's solar boom is a triumph for clean energy. But this rapid expansion comes with a hidden cost: an impending crisis of solar waste. Without a plan, the very technology powering our sustainable future could become its next major environmental challenge.

📉 90%+ Drop in solar PV costs (2010–2020)

⚡ From 57 MW in 2010 to 2,640 MW in 2017

🎯 6,000 MW target by 2036

🧭 Guided by the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP 2012–2021)

As Thailand ramps up solar, we face an overlooked challenge: solar waste.

🗑️ Over 246 tonnes improperly dumped in landfills

🧪 Panels contain hazardous materials like lead

🚨 By 2036, waste could hit 800,000 tonnes

A Regional Challenge

Vietnam: 16,500 MW installed—far above targets

Laos & Cambodia: Rapid expansion underway

South Korea: Expects 9,632 tons of waste by 2032

We’re working to build a circular economy for solar.

✅ Developing recycling strategies
✅ Supporting cross-border collaboration in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam
✅ Inspired by the EU’s WEEE directive on safe disposal