The Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI) has reached a key milestone in advancing transparency and responsible practices across the solar value chain with the release of its Supply Chain Traceability Standard.
The new Standard establishes a comprehensive framework for tracing key materials, like silicon, across the solar supply chain.
Independent auditors will assess traceability at production sites, with successful evaluations resulting in certification.
Covering every stage – from quartzite mining to module production – it ensures an unbroken Chain of Custody, distinguishing certified materials from non-certified ones to reinforce solar product integrity.
Developed through a multi-stakeholder consultation involving over 20 organizations, including civil society and industry experts, the Standard reflects rigorous and practical solutions to real-world traceability challenges.
Extensive pilot assessments across 14 supply chain sites further tested its feasibility and informed key updates.
“The SSI Supply Chain Traceability Standard sets a new bar for end-to-end supply chain accountability in the solar sector,” said Alexia Ruvoletto, Head of the SSI Secretariat.
“By establishing a clear, verifiable chain of custody for materials, it lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and ethical solar industry.”
The Standard aligns with regulatory requirements, including the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive and Forced Labour Ban Regulation.
Certification will begin in 2025, with targets for supply chain penetration and market coverage set for subsequent years.
