The report presents the results of sustainability case studies and best practices along the solar value chain. It aims to guide and accompany solar companies in showing thought leadership in sustainability. 

Current European developments considered in these guidelines include the ongoing discussions on legislative proposals such as Ecodesign and Energy Labelling requirements for PV products. 

The report takes a closer look at different areas of sustainability that are relevant for the solar PV sector, addressing a range of environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in the PV value chain. 

The report also sheds light on how the European and international PV industry is addressing them, presenting state-of-the-art sustainability practices in the solar PV industry and across the entire PV value chain. Such practices can be used as benchmarks to advance the whole PV sector’s sustainability performance and to drive overall sustainable change. 

Key topics:

• Carbon footprint
• Circularity
• Sustainable supply chain
• Biodiversity and large-scale solar
• Planning and designing for public appearance
• Human rights
• Supply chain transparency