The semiconductor material used in First Solar PV Modules is primarily sourced from the byproducts of mining operations.

First Solar PV Modules incorporate micron amounts of cadmium telluride (CdTe) – about 1% of the semiconductor material used in typical crystalline silicon solar modules. Once compounded and encapsulated in First Solar modules, CdTe proves optimal for converting sunlight to useful electricity. The semiconductor material is effectively sequester within the module throughout its 25+ year lifetime.

First Solar is converting waste products from one manufacturing process into useful material for the manufacture of solar modules. This process not only reduces the toxic effects of fossil fuel generation, but generates new technology that is creating clean, renewable energy.

Environmental Effects of CdTe

The semiconductor material used by First Solar is uniquely capable of producing high volume, low cost solar modules; making widespread, cost-effective solar electricity a reality. Research from the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory concluded:

-- Large-scale use of CdTe PV modules does not present any risks to health and the environment, and recycling the modules at the end of their useful life completely resolves any environmental concerns. During their operation, these modules do not produce any pollutants, and furthermore, by displacing fossil fuels, they offer great environmental benefits. CdTe PV modules appear to be more environmentally friendly than all other current uses of Cd.*

* Source: " RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS", Vol 8, 2004, pp 303 – 334, V M Fthenakis, “Life Cycle Impact Analysis of Cadmium in CdTe PV Production”, with permission from Elsevier
 
Hallbergmoos, Germany (1.2 MW); Blitzstrom / Beck Energy.