A recent article in PV Magazine by Lior Kahana highlights new research examining claims about the presence of PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in solar panels. The analysis is based on the peer-reviewed perspective paper Do solar panels contain PFAS?, authored by researchers Preeti Nain & 
Annick Anctil from Michigan State University and Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The study finds there is no confirmed evidence that PFAS are leaching from commercially deployed solar panels, even though certain fluoropolymers—a distinct subset of PFAS—may be used in limited components such as backsheets, coatings, or wiring.

The researchers emphasize that not all PFAS are the same. Fluoropolymers used in some solar applications differ significantly from more harmful, mobile PFAS compounds, as they are generally large, stable, and considered to have low bioavailability. Much of the concern, the study suggests, stems from confusion between these categories, as well as the historical use of more hazardous PFAS chemicals in manufacturing processes that have since been largely phased out or restricted.

Overall, the study points to a gap in public understanding and industry transparency. The authors call for improved transparency, clearer differentiation between PFAS types, and continued research, while also noting growing momentum toward PFAS-free alternatives and more informed discussions about the environmental sustainability of solar technologies.

Read the PV Magazine article, “No evidence of PFAS leaching from solar panels, study finds“ here: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2026/04/22/no-evidence-of-pfas-leaching-from-solar-panels-study-finds/?utm_source=USA+%7C+Newsletter&utm_campaign=58d68e34b0-dailynl_us&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_80e0d17bb8-58d68e34b0-494328017&ct=t(dailynl_us)

Read the peer-reviewed paper, “Do solar panels contain PFAS?“ here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1557/s43581-026-00156-7