First Solar Becomes Industry’s First EPEAT Climate+ Champion
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) announced that its Series 6 Plus and Series 7 TR1 products have achieved the prestigious EPEAT Climate+ designation. This marks the first time photovoltaic (PV) solar modules have earned this accolade, setting a global standard for solar technology and manufacturing.
EPEAT Climate+ Certification
EPEAT is a globally recognized ecolabel that validates environmentally preferable products from socially responsible companies. The EPEAT Climate+ designation addresses the entire product lifecycle, including managing substances, energy and water use during manufacturing, packaging, end-of-life recycling, corporate responsibility, and human rights.
This certification is unique as it is the only global ecolabel that considers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during solar module production. To receive the EPEAT Climate+ designation, products must meet an ultra-low carbon threshold of ≤400 kg CO2e/kWp. This helps purchasers identify and procure solar technologies designed with climate change mitigation in mind, reducing the scope 3 emissions of solar installations.
Industry Impact and Leadership
Bob Mitchell, CEO of the Global Electronics Council (GEC), emphasized the importance of EPEAT Climate+ in prioritizing ultra-low carbon solar technologies. He stated, “EPEAT Climate+ ensures purchasers can prioritize solar technologies that support decarbonization efforts. It is a simple, yet effective tool to mitigate lifecycle carbon impacts.”
First Solar’s advanced thin film PV modules are renowned for their quality, durability, and environmental performance. The Series 7 modules boast the lowest carbon and water footprint of any commercially available PV module today. Samantha Sloan, VP of Policy, Sustainability, and Marketing at First Solar, highlighted the significance of this achievement, stating, “With EPEAT Climate+, our customers can confidently procure solar modules that lower their scope 3 emissions and are responsibly made.”
Future Goals and Commitments
First Solar intends to validate the environmental footprint of its Series 7 FT1 module, manufactured in India, with the goal of achieving an EPEAT Climate+ designation. This move aligns with First Solar’s commitment to sustainability and advancing the fight against climate change.
About First Solar, Inc.
First Solar is a leading American solar technology company known for its eco-efficient solar modules. Developed at R&D labs in California and Ohio, the company’s advanced thin film PV modules offer a competitive, high-performance, lower-carbon alternative to conventional crystalline silicon PV panels. First Solar’s approach embodies sustainability from raw material sourcing to end-of-life module recycling.
Source：businesswire.com
