EPEAT is a globally recognized ecolabel that includes independent validation and allows for the easy identification of environmentally preferable products from socially responsible companies. EPEAT addresses the whole product life cycle, including managing substances in the product, manufacturing energy and water use, product packaging, end-of-life recycling, corporate responsibility, and human rights.
EPEAT Climate+ makes EPEAT the only global ecolabel to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during the different stages of solar module production, and products receiving the designation must meet the ultra-low carbon threshold of ≤400 kg CO2e/kWp. EPEAT Climate+ helps purchasers quickly identify technology products designed and manufactured with climate change mitigation in mind, allowing them to reduce scope 3 emissions of solar installations.
"EPEAT Climate+ helps ensure that purchasers and investors are able to prioritize ultra-low carbon solar technologies that meaningfully support decarbonization efforts," said Bob Mitchell, chief executive officer, Global Electronics Council (GEC).
First Solar's responsibly produced, advanced thin film PV modules already set industry benchmarks for quality, durability, reliability, design, and environmental performance and its Series 7 modules have the lowest carbon and water footprint of any commercially available PV module today.
"As we add yet another differentiating factor that separates our technology from the competition, we are reminded that not all solar is created equal and that embodied carbon remains a challenge for the solar industry," said Samantha Sloan, vice president of Policy, Sustainability, and Marketing, First Solar.
First Solar's Series 6 Plus and Series 7 TR1 became the first solar modules to be included in a list of nearly 1,500 products produced by leading electronics brands known as EPEAT Climate+ Champions. The company intends to validate the environmental footprint of its Series 7 FT1 module, which is manufactured in India, with the goal of achieving an EPEAT Climate+ designation.
