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Embracing ESG in the solar industry

Published in: Solar, Digital Blog

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Championing ESG in the Solar Industry

REC Group, a veteran solar panel manufacturer with nearly 30 years of experience, is embracing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles to redefine sustainability in the solar sector. Led by ESG Chairperson Agnieszka Schulze, REC is using its innovation-driven culture to align solar energy with ethical and environmentally responsible practices.

Why ESG Matters in Solar While solar energy is inherently seen as green, REC pushes the boundaries by embedding ESG deeper into its operations. Key challenges include:

  • Increasing regulatory demands for transparent ESG reporting.
  • Rising consumer and investor expectations for sustainable supply chains.
  • The need to educate stakeholders on the true environmental footprint of solar panel manufacturing.

By integrating ESG at all levels, REC demonstrates leadership in creating a more responsible renewable energy landscape.

Strategic ESG Implementation & Impact REC's ESG strategy is driven by:

  • A cross-functional ESG Steering Committee ensuring company-wide involvement.
  • Annual ESG reports guided by ISO 26000, addressing issues like human rights, labor, and environmental protection.
  • Initiatives that have halved water consumption and reduced energy usage by a third in just three years.

REC supports the UN Global Compact and conducts regular supplier audits to uphold global sustainability standards.

Technology Meets Responsibility REC doesn’t just lead in ESG but also in solar innovation:

  • First mover in adopting Heterojunction (HJT) cell technology for greater efficiency and environmental benefits.
  • Produces high-performance panels while minimizing energy, water, and waste in manufacturing.
  • Offers educational resources to help installers and consumers choose truly sustainable panels.

Their recent EcoVadis Silver Medal places REC among the top 15% of electronics manufacturers globally for sustainability.

A Vision for a Sustainable Solar Future REC’s mission goes beyond wattage and cost, focusing on:

  • Educating stakeholders on how panels are made and the resources they consume.
  • Ensuring traceability and ethical sourcing across the entire supply chain.
  • Advocating for long-term thinking in product selection to build a more sustainable industry.

As ESG becomes a defining force in solar, REC leads by example—delivering both innovation and integrity to power a greener tomorrow.

Read the full article here: https://pes.eu.com/exclusive-article/embracing-esg-in-the-solar-industry/

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