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Prefunded Collection and Recycling Program |
| Consistent with the environmental philosophy of extended producer responsibility, First Solar has established the industry's first comprehensive, prefunded module collection and recycling program. The program is designed to maximize the recovery of valuable materials for use in new modules or other new products and minimize the environmental impacts associated with PV system production. Approximately 90% of each collected First Solar PV Module is recycled into new products, including new First Solar modules. By deploying clean and sustainable sources of energy, First Solar is creating energy solutions today without creating waste management challenges for future generations. |
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Collection and Recycling Request |
| As First Solar places no restriction on when someone may request collection, anyone in possession of a First Solar PV Module can participate in the recycling program by submitting a request for collection. First Solar provides packing materials, transportation, and recycling services at no additional cost. The only requirement of those wishing to dispose of First Solar modules is to dismantle and package the modules in accordance with First Solar's instructions. |
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Program Overview |
You can learn more on the key elements of First Solar's recycling program below. Or, learn more about
how we recycle our modules. |
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Funding: |
With the sale of each module, First Solar sets aside sufficient funds required for the estimated future cost of collection and recycling in custodial accounts in the name of a Trustee. |
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Registration: |
The site location of each module installation is registered with First Solar. |
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Notice: |
Individual modules are labeled with Website and telephone contact information, along with the information that the module owner is able to return the product free of charge. |
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Collection: |
First Solar manages the logistics of collecting each module and provides packaging and transportation to the recycling center. |
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Recycling: |
All recycling processes are conducted in accordance with local health, safety, and waste management regulations. |
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Improvement: |
The program, including the financing structure, is audited annually by an independent third party to ensure it is achieving its goals and to identify areas for continuous improvement. |
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| Managing the product life cycle, from raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, enables First Solar to create a sustainable cycle that continually improves, resulting in greater environmental benefits. |
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Environment |
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| Clean, affordable, sustainable energy and extended producer responsibility are at the heart of First Solar's commitment to the environment. |
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 Environmental Commitment |
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Life Cycle |
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| First Solar takes into account the entire life cycle of our operations from raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling. |
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| Life Cycle Management |
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Finances Assured |
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| A Trustee distributes funds from custodial accounts for the sole purpose of administering module collection and recycling. |
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| Financial Responsibility |
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