First Solar –Water Usage Reduction Initiatives
Since 2009, First Solar has decreased the manufacturing water intensity (water consumption per watt produced) by 64%. This is due to significant improvements in module efficiency, manufacturing throughput, and the implementation of water conservation and recycling projects in our manufacturing and recycling operations.
In 2019, First Solar’s manufacturing water intensity decreased by ~46% due to the increased throughput and efficiency of our Series 6 manufacturing process and water recycling initiatives. Whist production more than doubled, absolute water withdrawals only increased by ~14%. Totaling to ~300 million liters of water saved in 2019, equivalent to 7% of First Solar’s absolute water use.
