Sustainability performance of industrial scale heterojunction technology (HJT) for solar photovoltaics (PV) INTRODUCTION • The goal of the AMPERE Project is to set-up an innovative 200 MWp full-scale automated pilot line, which will produce high efficiency and long life HJT silicon solar cells and modules at the Enel Green Power (EGP) 3SUN site in Catania, Italy. • The purpose is to demonstrate innovative and sustainable manufacturing of PV products and enhance the competitiveness of the EU industry in the global PV market. • A sustainability assessment was conducted to assess the potential environmental and social impacts and benefits that may occur across the value chain. The results will be used to inform stakeholders on sustainability best practices for scaling similar PV technologies in Europe. The business of sustainability INITIAL RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS SCOPE & METHODOLOGY Impact assessment methods • Environmental LCA (E-LCA): Cradle to grave LCA according to ISO14040 and EU Product Environmental Footprint Category Rule for PV modules (PEFCR) • Social LCA (S-LCA): UNEP S-LCA guidelines Types of impacts considered • E-LCA: Impact categories included in International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD), including Global warming potential (IPCC 2013). • GWP is a key driver is assessing electricity production technologies. • S-LCA: Material issues were identified as: Working conditions, labour rights, health and safety, local community impacts and socio-economic benefits. GWP Results & Conclusions: • GWP per kWh is less for the AMPERE bifacial module than the PERC (mono- facial module): • Lower GWP impact in the production process. • Increased lifetime electricity generation from the bifacial gain and extended lifetime. • Impact of reducing wafer thickness and source of electricity used for wafer : • Wafers produced using Norway grid electricity (predominantly renewable hydro power) have a lower GWP impact than wafers produced with average European electricity (significant contribution from coal and other fossil fuels). • Use of thinner wafers (150µm compared to 180µm) can reduce GWP but larger decreases can be see when electricity is sourced from renewable sources. OBJECTIVES 1. Use life cycle assessment (LCA) methods to identify environmental and social impacts in the AMPERE HJT module value chain. 2. Benchmark the environmental and social performance against; mainstream PV technologies (i.e. PERC mono-facial module) and the potential benefits design innovations considered in the AMPERE project (e.g. thinner wafers and use of Smart Wire Connection Technology). 3. Identify potential environmental and social impacts and benefits of producing HJT modules and components. Social LCA - Initial conclusions • Upstream activities in emerging markets present E&S risks and the PV materials' typical value chains were assessed through a sector / country combined analysis • There is a strong potential for creating benefits in the European PV value chain: direct and indirect job creation, economic contribution, technological development and innovation in both upstream and downstream segments. • Increase of technological capacities and innovation in European PV value chains D. Reid*, B. Hartlin, C. Poulopoulos and E. Bauguen *Donald Reid, Environmental Resources Management (ERM), Eaton House, Wallbrook Court, North Hinksey Lane, Oxford, UK, OX2 0QS. Email: donald.reid@erm.com Environmental LCA – Global Warming Potential (GWP) High to very high risks • Child/forced labour • Poor and unsafe working conditions • Workers’ rights and wages • Impacts on local communities (environmental damage, public health, land use) End of life Operation and maintenance Installation Catania production site Manufacturing of components Processing of raw materials Mining (Copper, Silver, tin, etc.) Benefits: Potential for job creation, economic contribution, technological innovation in Europe Medium to high risks • Poor and unsafe working conditions • Worker