About
Many people think of PV panels as a homogeneous commodity. However, there are significant differences between the longevity of modules (10 vs 30 years), degradation, the presence of toxics (most modules contain PFAS, lead and antimony, some models none), carbon footprint (range from 250-1000+ kg CO2/kWp), and so on. There are also differences in project terms and conditions that can have a big impact on financial outcomes over time. We make such issues insightful and transparent to our community members.
Focus of the community
The Community of Public Buyers for Solar PV provides insights and information on sustainability, quality and financial aspects, market surveys (what is available at which price) as well as templates for tenders and contracts.
Latest news
WACKER is one of the few producers outside China manufacturing high-purity polysilicon – a key material for solar cell production. The company can demonstrate that all its materials are responsibly sourced.
The Big Buyers Working Together (BBWT) Community of Practice (CoP) working on Sustainable Solar panels has made the guide ‘How to Prepare and Start a PV Project’ available in 24 EU languages.
Latest resources
In our new podcast episode, discover how cities across Europe can drive the green transition through sustainable solar PV procurement in just 10 minutes.
Roadmap of the BBWT Sustainable Solar PV Community of Practice.