First Solar Leads the Way as EPEAT Climate+ Champion, Defining Ultra-Low Carbon Solar Standard

First Solar, Inc. has introduced the Series 6 Plus and Series 7 TR1 solar modules—the world’s first to achieve the EPEAT Climate+ designation. This milestone sets a new standard for environmentally responsible solar technology. EPEAT, a globally recognized ecolabel, validates these products’ eco-friendliness. From managing substances to end-of-life recycling, EPEAT covers the entire product life cycle, emphasizing corporate responsibility and human rights.

EPEAT Climate+ uniquely addresses greenhouse gas emissions throughout solar module production stages. To earn this designation, products must meet an ultra-low carbon threshold of ≤400 kg CO2e/kWp. By choosing EPEAT-certified technology, purchasers contribute to climate change mitigation and reduce scope 3 emissions from solar installation.

“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). “This is a simple, yet effective tool to mitigate lifecycle carbon impacts of solar modules, while enabling a market for responsibly manufactured technologies that embody sustainability.

“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. “With EPEAT Climate+, our customers now benefit from a global standard that allows them to confidently procure solar modules that lower their scope 3 emissions and are responsibly made. We encourage other manufacturers to embrace this global validation standard and contribute to the effort to reinforce our industry’s license to operate.”