First Solar Sustainability Profile
First Solar, Inc., a leading player in the solar energy sector, is headquartered in the United States, with significant operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. Founded in 1999, the company has established itself as a pioneer in photovoltaic (PV) solar technology, focusing on the design and manufacturing of thin-film solar modules. First Solar's unique cadmium telluride (CdTe) technology sets it apart, offering high efficiency and lower environmental impact compared to traditional silicon-based solar cells. The company has achieved notable milestones, including being one of the largest solar manufacturers globally and a key contributor to utility-scale solar projects. With a commitment to sustainability and innovation, First Solar continues to strengthen its market position, driving the transition to renewable energy solutions.
DitchCarbon Score
How does First Solar's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Industry Average
Mean score of companies in the Solar Thermal Electricity industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Industry Benchmark
First Solar's score of 57 is higher than 90% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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First Solar's reported carbon emissions
In 2023, First Solar reported total greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 3,660,151,000 kg CO2e, with emissions distributed across various scopes: 11,638,000 kg CO2e (Scope 1), 776,502,000 kg CO2e (Scope 2), and 3,660,151,000 kg CO2e (Scope 3). This represents a significant increase in emissions compared to 2022, where total emissions were about 2,679,637,000 kg CO2e, with Scope 1 at 7,690,000 kg CO2e, Scope 2 at 563,652,000 kg CO2e, and Scope 3 at 2,679,637,000 kg CO2e. First Solar has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030 for both Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Additionally, the company has committed to reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 34% by 2028 from a 2020 baseline. For Scope 3 emissions, First Solar targets a reduction of 45% per megawatt produced within the same timeframe. Long-term goals include a 90% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2050 and a 97% reduction in Scope 3 emissions from purchased goods and services, capital goods, and fuel- and energy-related activities. These targets align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and reflect First Solar's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint while increasing manufacturing capacity. The company is headquartered in the United States and operates within the electrical equipment and machinery sector.
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| 2014 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 10,593,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | - | - | 0,000,000 | 00,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 320,302,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | - | - | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
| Scope 3 | - | - | - | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 | - | - | 0,000,000,000 | 0,000,000,000 |
How Carbon Intensive is First Solar's Industry?
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First Solar's Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
First Solar has established climate goals through participation in recognized frameworks and target-setting initiatives. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about First Solar's sustainability data and climate commitments