![\"Magnifying](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/newtop.png\")
\r\n
\r\n
As a prospective solar customer, you're likely enthusiastic about contributing to a cleaner planet. \r\n
However, it's vital to recognize that the sustainability journey in every industry, including solar, is ongoing. While intentions are commendable, there's always room for improvement in the following areas:\r\n
In this article, we'll delve into how you can identify solar installers who go the extra mile for sustainability, ensuring that your switch to solar power truly aligns with your eco-friendly priorities.\r\n Table of Contents: \r\n ROIs Hint: You don't need to search for a purely altruistic company here. Sustainability can yield economic success for local and national providers alike. \r\n Sustainability isn't just about being eco-friendly — it also makes business sense.\r\n Sustainable initiatives can lead to all sorts of benefits, such as the following:\r\n As solar companies embrace sustainable practices alongside their already-sustainable product, they position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly environmentally and socially conscious market. \r\n In other words: look for a solar company that's doing well and doing good. \r\n Individual green efforts don't exist in a vacuum, and neither do organizational efforts.\r\n Therefore, look for companies both bold enough to make strides in their own right and humble enough to accept coaching and collaboration from other parties already doing the work (and maybe even two steps ahead). \r\n Whether it's solar-specific partnerships or partnerships outside of the industry, collaboration has the potential to provide more comprehensive, holistic, long-term solutions. \r\n Look for solar installers that practice collaboration with other parties such as sustainability consultants, energy storage firms, and eco-friendly manufacturers.\r\n As you well know, sustainability goes beyond solar and our planet is in dire need of comprehensive improvements that span industries, countries, and continents.\r\n Consider the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals: \r\n All of these goals are worthy of awareness, advocacy, and funding, so there's no one right answer here. \r\n A company's commitment to philanthropy reflects its alignment with sustainable values. Seek out a solar company that aligns itself with one or more of the SDGs and feel good about your investment in renewable energy and additional causes that matter. \r\n For example, SolarSesame has supported a number of organizations with sustainability initiatives, including the Rainforest Foundation US, The Future Forest Company, TIST tree planting initiatives, the Clean Air Task Force, and Carbon 180.\r\n ESG (environmental, social, and governance) initiatives and reports answer to some of the social pressure for companies to report on carbon emissions and other environmental impact indicators. They can provide stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of their commitment to sustainability, while also fostering transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.\r\n But ESG is controversial because of some very valid critiques by sustainability experts, including the following:\r\n We're not going to argue that ESG is perfect.\r\n But however flawed it may be, it does provide a degree of internal opportunity and external pressure to take inventory and set goals for improvement. And measurements can be improved over time; for example, things are trending toward consolidation of ESG reporting and disclosure frameworks. \r\n While ESG reports are not always an objective indicator of a company's impact, they are a good start. \r\n Consider a solar company that reports on its efforts in one or more of the following areas: \r\n Additionally, clear targets and a path forward for improvement in any area demonstrate a deeper commitment to sustainability. And then, the clincher — in subsequent months and years, does the company actually hit those milestones or at least show progress toward them? \r\n It may feel uncomfortable to think about, but solar panel manufacturing contributes to non-renewable resource depletion via mining and also generates greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) that contribute to climate change.\r\n Yes, solar still produces a net good for the planet, with 18 times less carbon emissions over its lifetime than coal and 13 times less carbon emissions than natural gas. \r\n Read More: Does Solar Really Make a Difference? \r\n According to sustainability firm founder Josh Prigge, solar companies can make important distinctions here: \"Choose suppliers who prioritize both high-quality silicon for solar cells as well as ethical mining processes,\" he advises. The less need for petroleum-based plastic polymers in solar cell manufacturing, the better. \r\n Standout solar panel manufacturer Trina Solar decreased per-module power consumption by 42 percent, water consumption by 53 percent, and GHGs by 62 percent from 2020 to 2022. \r\n Sustainable procurement can include standalone initiatives or across-the-board improvements, but the best solar companies have an awareness of the environmental impacts of manufacturing and select manufacturers accordingly.\r\n For example, Solar SME partners with suppliers who prioritize responsible manufacturing. One of its suppliers is solar battery manufacturer Panasonic, which is invested in new approaches to minimizing the finite-resource cobalt in batteries as well as exploring cobalt reclamation in decommissioned batteries.\r\n And SunPower has adopted its own set of Supplier Sustainability Guidelines based on the Solar Energies Industry Association's (SEIA) Solar Commitment. \r\n Just as small amounts of cobalt can potentially be reused from solar batteries, solar panels contain glass, plastic, and aluminum that can all be reclaimed. Implementing an effective global solar recycling scheme could recover raw materials worth $450 million by 2030. \r\n Separating the individual materials requires advanced machinery and processes — and money.\r\n In fact, recycling a panel costs $20 to $30 while disposal can be as low as $1 to $2. So it makes sense that a lot of great solar companies still haven't jumped on the recycling train. \r\n When you find one, give it some serious consideration. \r\n First Solar has taken the lead with solar panel recycling, prioritizing glass, plastic, and aluminum reclamation in its panel takeback program. It boasts a 90 percent plus recovery of module materials for reuse and is the only solar manufacturer with global in-house PV recycling capabilities. \r\n 78 million tons. \r\n That's how much solar panel waste there will be (at least) by the year 2050, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Further research states that these numbers will be far more significant and emerge far sooner. \r\n When people replace their systems even though the existing ones still produce energy effectively, the waste problem is amplified.\r\n It's understandable that consumers want the newest and best products, including solar. But solar's impressive energy payback period of around four years generally assumes energy production during the system's entire life expectancy of 30 years. \r\n Look for solar companies that emphasize the longevity of their products, offering extended workmanship warranties, energy production guarantees, and inclusive maintenance options.\r\n By showcasing the value of panels throughout their lifetime and implementing warranties and guarantees that support their claims, these companies reduce unnecessary replacements and waste.\r\n Consider solar companies that prioritize local manufacturing and use electric vehicles for transportation, minimizing the GHGs emitted from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. \r\n SunPower, in its latest ESG Report, has described its commitment to convert at least 90 percent of its vehicle fleet to electric and hybrid vehicles by 2030 and has begun that process. SunPower’s initiative contributes to its plan to eventually achieve net zero carbon emissions for U.S. warehouse shipments to home delivery. \r\n While SunPower transparently explains that it would like to be beyond its 5 percent benchmark so far, progress is limited by the current number of vehicles suitable for operations, it continues to partner with vehicle manufacturers to renew expiring leases with electric or hybrid vehicles. \r\n We're seeing more and more solar companies follow suit and take steps to decrease transportation-related emissions, including the following implementations by some of our solar partners: \r\n Solar companies can set themselves apart as innovators by implementing solar projects in non-conventional areas, such as shopping malls, parking lots, and water reservoirs. These types of installations maximize land use without compromising sustainability.\r\n While not all residential solar installers do commercial projects, having a non-traditional project like the above in their portfolio can be a great sign of maximum sustainability awareness. \r\n A study co-led by sustainability researcher Joshua Pearce found that floating solar panels (“floatovoltaics”) could not only generate electricity but also fund water conservation in the drought-stricken United States: The case study of Lake Mead found that if 10 percent of the lake were covered with foam-backed, flexible surface-mounted solar panels, there would be enough water conserved and electricity generated to service both Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada. \r\n There is so much opportunity for thinking and working outside of the box here. \r\n There are all kinds of factors that have made solar relatively inaccessible to people living in multi-family housing units: \r\n Despite these challenges, solar companies and other organizations are working to make solar more accessible among housing types beyond single-family homes. \r\n Look for a solar company that works with multifamily housing developers to make new builds compatible with solar. Other solutions include community solar programs — where residents can subscribe to a shared solar installation off-site — or solar leasing arrangements, where a third party owns and operates the solar panels on the building (while tenants benefit from the generated electricity).\r\n While not a guarantee of superiority, companies that boast awards, certifications, and recognition from industry peers or environmental organizations can stand out from the crowd. \r\n For example, Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) membership or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) expertise. Best Company’s annual Sustainability Award showcases companies excelling in sustainability within the solar industry and beyond. \r\n Look for solar companies that run a green office space, incorporating energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and solar energy systems.\r\n A 2023 Best Company Sustainability Award winner and recently named the Greenest Contractor in the United States by Solar Power World, Cape Fear Solar Systems has a new warehouse facility featuring a large solar array installed on the rooftop — in the shape of an American flag, no less. \r\n Any good solar company can equip you with a system that will get you up and running with renewable energy. \r\n But you may as well optimize your investment for the greenest return possible. \r\n By choosing a solar installer that prioritizes sustainability, you show — with your business — that you value brands propelling the broader movement toward a greener future. \r\n Shop around for the top companies in your state, based on verified customer reviews.\r\nLearn More\r\n",
"wordCount": 2206,
"image": "https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/newheader.png"
}
Last Updated: August 21st, 2023 As a prospective solar customer, you're likely enthusiastic about contributing to a cleaner planet. However, it's vital to recognize that the sustainability journey in every industry, including solar, is ongoing. While intentions are commendable, there's always room for improvement in the following areas: In this article, we'll delve into how you can identify solar installers who go the extra mile for sustainability, ensuring that your switch to solar power truly aligns with your eco-friendly priorities. Table of Contents: ROIs Hint: You don't need to search for a purely altruistic company here. Sustainability can yield economic success for local and national providers alike. Sustainability isn't just about being eco-friendly — it also makes business sense. Sustainable initiatives can lead to all sorts of benefits, such as the following: As solar companies embrace sustainable practices alongside their already-sustainable product, they position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly environmentally and socially conscious market. In other words: look for a solar company that's doing well and doing good. Individual green efforts don't exist in a vacuum, and neither do organizational efforts. Therefore, look for companies both bold enough to make strides in their own right and humble enough to accept coaching and collaboration from other parties already doing the work (and maybe even two steps ahead). Whether it's solar-specific partnerships or partnerships outside of the industry, collaboration has the potential to provide more comprehensive, holistic, long-term solutions. Look for solar installers that practice collaboration with other parties such as sustainability consultants, energy storage firms, and eco-friendly manufacturers. As you well know, sustainability goes beyond solar and our planet is in dire need of comprehensive improvements that span industries, countries, and continents. Consider the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals: All of these goals are worthy of awareness, advocacy, and funding, so there's no one right answer here. A company's commitment to philanthropy reflects its alignment with sustainable values. Seek out a solar company that aligns itself with one or more of the SDGs and feel good about your investment in renewable energy and additional causes that matter. For example, SolarSesame has supported a number of organizations with sustainability initiatives, including the Rainforest Foundation US, The Future Forest Company, TIST tree planting initiatives, the Clean Air Task Force, and Carbon 180. ESG (environmental, social, and governance) initiatives and reports answer to some of the social pressure for companies to report on carbon emissions and other environmental impact indicators. They can provide stakeholders with a comprehensive understanding of their commitment to sustainability, while also fostering transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. But ESG is controversial because of some very valid critiques by sustainability experts, including the following: We're not going to argue that ESG is perfect. But however flawed it may be, it does provide a degree of internal opportunity and external pressure to take inventory and set goals for improvement. And measurements can be improved over time; for example, things are trending toward consolidation of ESG reporting and disclosure frameworks. While ESG reports are not always an objective indicator of a company's impact, they are a good start. Consider a solar company that reports on its efforts in one or more of the following areas: Additionally, clear targets and a path forward for improvement in any area demonstrate a deeper commitment to sustainability. And then, the clincher — in subsequent months and years, does the company actually hit those milestones or at least show progress toward them? It may feel uncomfortable to think about, but solar panel manufacturing contributes to non-renewable resource depletion via mining and also generates greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) that contribute to climate change. Yes, solar still produces a net good for the planet, with 18 times less carbon emissions over its lifetime than coal and 13 times less carbon emissions than natural gas. Read More: Does Solar Really Make a Difference? According to sustainability firm founder Josh Prigge, solar companies can make important distinctions here: "Choose suppliers who prioritize both high-quality silicon for solar cells as well as ethical mining processes," he advises. The less need for petroleum-based plastic polymers in solar cell manufacturing, the better. Standout solar panel manufacturer Trina Solar decreased per-module power consumption by 42 percent, water consumption by 53 percent, and GHGs by 62 percent from 2020 to 2022. Sustainable procurement can include standalone initiatives or across-the-board improvements, but the best solar companies have an awareness of the environmental impacts of manufacturing and select manufacturers accordingly. For example, Solar SME partners with suppliers who prioritize responsible manufacturing. One of its suppliers is solar battery manufacturer Panasonic, which is invested in new approaches to minimizing the finite-resource cobalt in batteries as well as exploring cobalt reclamation in decommissioned batteries. And SunPower has adopted its own set of Supplier Sustainability Guidelines based on the Solar Energies Industry Association's (SEIA) Solar Commitment. Just as small amounts of cobalt can potentially be reused from solar batteries, solar panels contain glass, plastic, and aluminum that can all be reclaimed. Implementing an effective global solar recycling scheme could recover raw materials worth $450 million by 2030. Separating the individual materials requires advanced machinery and processes — and money. In fact, recycling a panel costs $20 to $30 while disposal can be as low as $1 to $2. So it makes sense that a lot of great solar companies still haven't jumped on the recycling train. When you find one, give it some serious consideration. First Solar has taken the lead with solar panel recycling, prioritizing glass, plastic, and aluminum reclamation in its panel takeback program. It boasts a 90 percent plus recovery of module materials for reuse and is the only solar manufacturer with global in-house PV recycling capabilities. 78 million tons. That's how much solar panel waste there will be (at least) by the year 2050, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). Further research states that these numbers will be far more significant and emerge far sooner. When people replace their systems even though the existing ones still produce energy effectively, the waste problem is amplified. It's understandable that consumers want the newest and best products, including solar. But solar's impressive energy payback period of around four years generally assumes energy production during the system's entire life expectancy of 30 years. Look for solar companies that emphasize the longevity of their products, offering extended workmanship warranties, energy production guarantees, and inclusive maintenance options. By showcasing the value of panels throughout their lifetime and implementing warranties and guarantees that support their claims, these companies reduce unnecessary replacements and waste. Consider solar companies that prioritize local manufacturing and use electric vehicles for transportation, minimizing the GHGs emitted from fossil fuel-powered vehicles. SunPower, in its latest ESG Report, has described its commitment to convert at least 90 percent of its vehicle fleet to electric and hybrid vehicles by 2030 and has begun that process. SunPower’s initiative contributes to its plan to eventually achieve net zero carbon emissions for U.S. warehouse shipments to home delivery. While SunPower transparently explains that it would like to be beyond its 5 percent benchmark so far, progress is limited by the current number of vehicles suitable for operations, it continues to partner with vehicle manufacturers to renew expiring leases with electric or hybrid vehicles. We're seeing more and more solar companies follow suit and take steps to decrease transportation-related emissions, including the following implementations by some of our solar partners: Solar companies can set themselves apart as innovators by implementing solar projects in non-conventional areas, such as shopping malls, parking lots, and water reservoirs. These types of installations maximize land use without compromising sustainability. While not all residential solar installers do commercial projects, having a non-traditional project like the above in their portfolio can be a great sign of maximum sustainability awareness. A study co-led by sustainability researcher Joshua Pearce found that floating solar panels (“floatovoltaics”) could not only generate electricity but also fund water conservation in the drought-stricken United States: The case study of Lake Mead found that if 10 percent of the lake were covered with foam-backed, flexible surface-mounted solar panels, there would be enough water conserved and electricity generated to service both Las Vegas and Reno, Nevada. There is so much opportunity for thinking and working outside of the box here. There are all kinds of factors that have made solar relatively inaccessible to people living in multi-family housing units: Despite these challenges, solar companies and other organizations are working to make solar more accessible among housing types beyond single-family homes. Look for a solar company that works with multifamily housing developers to make new builds compatible with solar. Other solutions include community solar programs — where residents can subscribe to a shared solar installation off-site — or solar leasing arrangements, where a third party owns and operates the solar panels on the building (while tenants benefit from the generated electricity). While not a guarantee of superiority, companies that boast awards, certifications, and recognition from industry peers or environmental organizations can stand out from the crowd. For example, Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) membership or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) expertise. Best Company’s annual Sustainability Award showcases companies excelling in sustainability within the solar industry and beyond. Look for solar companies that run a green office space, incorporating energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and solar energy systems. A 2023 Best Company Sustainability Award winner and recently named the Greenest Contractor in the United States by Solar Power World, Cape Fear Solar Systems has a new warehouse facility featuring a large solar array installed on the rooftop — in the shape of an American flag, no less. Any good solar company can equip you with a system that will get you up and running with renewable energy. But you may as well optimize your investment for the greenest return possible. By choosing a solar installer that prioritizes sustainability, you show — with your business — that you value brands propelling the broader movement toward a greener future. Shop around for the top companies in your state, based on verified customer reviews. January 24th, 2025 January 24th, 2025 January 22nd, 2025
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Partnerships
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Recognitions
Office operations \r\n![\"Money](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/money.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies recognize returns on sustainability investments\r\n
\r\n
![\"People](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/partners.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies collaborate with strategic partners\r\n
![\"Hand](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/give.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies donate to sustainability-focused organizations\r\n
\r\n
![\"Chart](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/report.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies incorporate transparent reporting\r\n
\r\n
\r\n
![\"Diamond](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/procure.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies prioritize ethical procurement\r\n
![\"Recycle](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/recycle.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies support solar panel recycling\r\n
![\"Calendar](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/calendar.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies encourage full-lifetime panel use\r\n
![\"ev](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/evcharger.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies reduce transportation emissions\r\n
\r\n
![\"lightbulb](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/innovate.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies explore innovative land use\r\n
![\"Apartment](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/apartment.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies have solar options for multi-family housing \r\n
\r\n
![\"trophy](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/award.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies seek industry recognition\r\n
![\"Solar](\"https://images.bestcompany.com/blog/officesolar.png\")
\r\nSustainable companies evaluate and improve office operations \r\n
When you work with a sustainable solar installer, you drive sustainability efforts within the industry \r\n
\r\n\r\nReady to Go Solar? \r\n
How to Spot a Sustainable Solar Company
Partnerships
Donations
Reporting
Procurement
Panel recycling
Longevity
Transportation
Land-use innovation
Multi-family housing
Recognitions
Office operations Sustainable companies recognize returns on sustainability investments
The Top Solar Companies
#1
Sunrun
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9.9 Overall Score
4.6
(3,214)
#2
ION Solar
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9.8 Overall Score
4.9
(1,469)
#3
Current Home
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9.6 Overall Score
5.0
(93)
Top of Page
Sustainable companies collaborate with strategic partners
Sustainable companies donate to sustainability-focused organizations
Sustainable companies incorporate transparent reporting
Sustainable companies prioritize ethical procurement
Sustainable companies support solar panel recycling
Sustainable companies encourage full-lifetime panel use
Sustainable companies reduce transportation emissions
Sustainable companies explore innovative land use
Sustainable companies have solar options for multi-family housing
Sustainable companies seek industry recognition
Sustainable companies evaluate and improve office operations
When you work with a sustainable solar installer, you drive sustainability efforts within the industry
Ready to Go Solar?
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