The global solar PV market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for clean and renewable energy sources. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have proven to be a cost-effective solution for mitigating climate change, with the global cumulative installed capacity surpassing 1 terawatt (TW) in 2022. As the world embraces renewable energy, sustainability standards for solar PV modules have become a crucial focus for governments and organisations worldwide.
Life cycle assessments (LCAs) have shed light on the environmental impact of PV modules. These assessments estimate that modules manufactured using energy from high-carbon resources can have nearly twice the embodied carbon compared to those produced with lower-carbon resources. Understanding and reducing the embodied carbon in solar PV modules have become key goals for the industry.
Several developed countries have started implementing tender criteria requiring full disclosure of PV modules’ carbon footprint. France has been a frontrunner in this regard since 2016, utilising simplified methodologies to specify the embodied carbon in modules. Other countries such as Korea, Italy, and Norway are following suit through international product category rules (PCR) for the entire photovoltaic module value chain. Moreover, the European Union (EU) is evaluating the inclusion of PV module carbon footprint disclosure options in the EU Eco Design, Energy, and Eco Labelling. These initiatives reflect the market’s shift towards embracing low-embodied solar materials.
Solar module manufacturing accounts for significant emissions in the solar PV system supply chain. As the world undergoes an energy transition, it is crucial for manufacturers, particularly in developing countries, to be aware of global trends and strive to decarbonise their supply chains. Manufacturers can support the supply chain by aligning with sustainability standards and reducing the embodied carbon in PV modules.
The latest trends in sustainability standards for solar PV modules highlight the industry’s commitment to reducing the embodied carbon in solar PV systems. Tender criteria and disclosure mandates across various countries emphasize the importance of transparently addressing the environmental impact of PV modules. Manufacturers, especially in developing countries, play a crucial role in supporting the energy transition by embracing sustainability standards and decarbonising their supply chains.
At Alexander Jackson Executive Search, we are committed to fostering the growth of sustainable energy solutions. Currently, we are looking to support a client in their search for a Solar PV Technical Design Engineer. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to developing solar PV systems focusing on sustainability.
If you are a passionate professional with expertise in solar PV technical design engineering, we invite you to explore this opportunity. By joining our client’s team, you can actively participate in shaping the future of renewable energy while adhering to the latest sustainability standards for solar PV modules.
To learn more about this position or to submit your application, please visit our vacancies page or contact Helen Charteris at helen@ajexecutivesearch.com. Let’s work together to drive the energy transition and create a greener, more sustainable future.
