by Dieter Loibner
Special to Solar Oregon

 On January 15, it was Portland's turn as a stop for The Power of One (Xof1), the car that left Toronto, Ont., on June 12, 2008 to break the world distance record for solar vehicles, which stood at 9,364 miles. That mark was surpassed on October 31, 2008, but Xof1 and its visionary driver, Marcelo da Luz, kept going and going and going. Just like the you-know-who. A few days ago, on their way down from Victoria, B.C. they logged their 10,000th mile but have their sights set on points further south. That's because "Power of One" is not just a solar car, but also a private non-profit venture, synonymous for the domino effect that can be created by an individual who inspires others to make positive change happen.

Full story...

Portland	Feb 14-15	::  Everything Green Expo
Portland	Feb 17	::  Basics of Going Solar
Corvallis	Feb 28	::  Solar Ambassadors Event
Portland	Mar 27-29	::  Better Living Show 2009
Portland	Apr 28 - May 3	::  Northwest Solar Expo

 

 

Q: How recyclable are PV panels? What is the environmental risk associated with manufacturing silicon solar cells? Does it rely on toxic chemicals?

SolarWorld Responds..

A: This is a great question since one of the primary reasons for using solar is to make a positive impact on the environment. While I can't speak for other manufacturers, I can say that SolarWorld makes every decision based on the triple bottom line (profits, people and the planet). Our monocrystaline PV modules are made not only to last as long as possible, but to be recycled at the end of their life--making it a truly renewable energy. In fact, every aspect of the manufacturing process incorporates recycling and best practices in regards to safety and the environment. At first we started recycling because it was the right thing to do, we soon found out, it also made a positive effect to profitability. In the manufacturing process, we are able to recycle just about every material and chemical. 
 
As far as toxic chemicals, it is important to do your research to see if the PV panels you are considering use toxic compounds such as Cadmium telluride (CdTe), which is used in some thin film PV. It is also important to know where your PV modules are manufactured.  As a rule of thumb, manufacturers in the US and Europe have far higher environmental standards than those made in countries like China. 
 
When considering a purchasing PV panels, do some research on the manufactures environmental practices, its commitment to the environment, its manufacturing processes and if the panels can be recycled.

www.solarworld-usa.com for more information



For a comprehensive resource on the safety of manufacturing and installing Photovoltaics, reference the National Photovoltaic Environmental Research Centers website.  http://www.bnl.gov/pv/


If you have a question you would like answered by a solar professional, email it to us at info@solaroregon.org.

The above information is provided as a courtesy to our readers to help them make an informed decision about solar products and services. Solar Oregon does not endorse individual organizations listed in the 'Ask a Professional' column and takes no responsibility for the content provided.