Cleaning Up Solar Energy
TOOLBOX   Resize
 Save/Share +
COMMENT
 Discussion Policy
 CLOSE
Comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions. You are fully responsible for the content that you post.
|
Reports of toxic dumping by a factory in China ["Solar Energy Firms Leave Waste Behind in China," front page, March 9] shocked and disappointed those of us in the U.S. solar industry.
The solar industry, now the largest purchaser of polysilicon, is proud of its strict compliance with environmental and safety laws. The Post story was the first we heard of this practice, which violates both our association's code of conduct and our mission as an industry. We are out to solve environmental problems, not create them.
Solar energy is the most environmentally friendly energy technology in existence. Polysilicon has been produced in the United States and Europe for 50 years cleanly and safely. It is standard industry practice to recycle silicon tetrachloride to produce more polysilicon. It is a shame that one small company in China apparently chose to take damaging shortcuts.
We're moving swiftly to assess the situation and will take whatever steps we can to ensure that all providers comply with the law and proper business practices to minimize their impact on the environment.
RHONE RESCH
President
Solar Energy Industries Association
Washington
