State of Sustainability Research for Photovoltaic Modules and Inverter

The Global Electronics Council (GEC) is proud to release its latest State of Sustainability Research (SOSR) for Photovoltaic Modules and Inverters. This comprehensive report delivers critical insights into the current environmental and social impacts of PV manufacturing, market trends, supply chain challenges, and opportunities for decarbonization, circularity, and responsible sourcing.

Serving as the scientific foundation for upcoming updates to EPEAT^® criteria, this research ensures sustainability leadership definitions evolve with technology advancements and global expectations.

What’s Inside:

• Current State of PV and Inverter Technologies
  Discover how solar technology is advancing, from high-efficiency crystalline silicon to emerging perovskite and floating PV systems.

• Supply Chain & Market Overview
  Understand the global distribution of PV manufacturing capacity and the growing need for supply chain transparency.

• Key Sustainability Challenges
  Examine critical issues including energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, hazardous chemicals, end-of-life management, and labor rights concerns.

• Impact Mitigation Strategies
  Explore decarbonization pathways, circularity models, advanced recycling technologies, and best practices for supply chain traceability.

• Regulatory Developments and Standards
  Stay informed on the evolving regulatory landscape and standards influencing PV module and inverter sustainability worldwide.

• Summary of Recommended EPEAT Criteria Updates
  See the recommendations that will shape the next generation of EPEAT criteria for PV modules and inverters.

As solar technology expands rapidly, the environmental and social implications of its manufacturing, installation, and end-of-life handling grow more complex. This research provides data-driven recommendations to address those challenges—advancing responsible practices while accelerating the global transition to clean, low-carbon energy.