Saturday, March 15, 2008

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