Life cycle assessment of multicrystalline silicon photovoltaic cell production in China

Energy crisis and environmental problems have increased the attention on solar power development and utilization. This study aims to identify the environmental effects associated with photovoltaic (PV) cell made up of multicrystalline silicon (multi-Si) in China by life cycle assessment. Results showed that multi-crystal solar PV technology provided significant contributions to respiratory inorganics, global warming, and non-renewable energy. The emissions generated by aluminum, coal-based electricity, and multi-Si wafer production processes played important roles in the overall environmental burden. To reduce the potential environmental impact of multi-Si PV cell in China, the proportion of renewable energy use for national electricity generation should be increased and the consumption efficiency of energy (i.e., electricity) and raw materials (i.e., silicon and aluminum) should be promoted.