Solar panel waste is projected to reach about 90,000 tonnes a year by 2030. One of Australia's leading science organisations says a $10 fee per panel could help solve the problem.

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering has called for a national reuse and recycling scheme for solar panels that would add about $10 to the cost of each panel at installation.

The proposal was made during a federal inquiry into solar panel waste but some experts say recycling could cost more due to transport and logistics.

A national solar panel recycling pilot program due to begin mid this year is yet to start.

The economic benefits of recycling solar panels could provide real economic benefits, according to researchers at the University of Adelaide.

The study found the recycling industry could generate up to $US670.8 billion ($950.6 billion) globally by 2060.

"We need to think of solar panels as part of a circular economy rather than a disposable product,