The solar industry is witnessing a significant development with the first polysilicon production facility in China receiving a supply certification from the SSI, a solar industry supply chain sustainability assurance scheme. This achievement marks a major milestone for the Solar Stewardship Initiative, emphasizing responsible sourcing and manufacturing across the solar PV value chain. The facility, Qinghai Lihao, has demonstrated traceability in its quartz supply to polysilicon leaving the factory, meeting the Supply Chain Traceability Standard. Additionally, it secured a silver initial certification for the SSI's environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standard, which assesses criteria including carbon emissions, business practices, and labor and workforce treatment.
The SSI's certification process involves implementing traceability on a transaction-dependent basis, allowing customers requesting traceable products to receive them. This approach has been adopted in other certifications, such as the silver certification awarded to two Trinasolar module assembly plants in May. The SSI's focus on traceability and ESG standards comes amidst increased attention to labor practices, supply chain transparency, and carbon emissions in the solar industry.
The involvement of major Chinese manufacturers in the SSI's founding organization, SolarPower Europe, has sparked criticism. Critics argue that this involvement influences the design of certifications and limits the organization's scope. However, the former head of the SSI has defended this approach, stating that involving manufacturers ensures the standards are practical and workable. The SSI's role in promoting sustainability and responsible practices in the solar industry is crucial, but it must navigate the challenges of balancing industry standards and transparency.
This development highlights the growing importance of sustainability and supply chain transparency in the solar industry. As companies like Tongwei, a leading Chinese polysilicon producer, secure ESG and supply chain traceability standards for their facilities, the industry is moving towards a more responsible and sustainable future. The SSI's certification process and the industry's commitment to these standards are essential steps towards ensuring the solar sector's long-term viability and environmental impact.
