The Smart Energy Council is committed to working with its Members & suppliers to establish and maintain ethical, sustainable and socially responsible operations and supply chains in accordance with its Principles for Members and Suppliers.

The Smart Energy Council joins other solar international stakeholders to condemn use of forced labour in all industries wherever such human rights abuses are found.

The purpose of these Smart Energy Council – Principles for Members & suppliers (Principles) is to communicate the behaviour and standards that Smart Energy Council (SEC) expects of its Members & suppliers.

The Australian solar industry has been working with the Global Solar Council and other peak solar industry bodies to increase supply-chain transparency.  Concerns have emerged in recent weeks around allegations of forced labour in the production of feed stock materials such as polysilicon, which is used in the manufacture of solar PV panels.

John Grimes, Chief Executive, Smart Energy Council said:

“This is a matter that all solar energy industry members are treating with the utmost seriousness. We expect our industry to follow manufacturing practices which are in line with internationally recognised standards.

Making global supply chains transparent and sustainable is complex and challenging for all industries. We will continue to work with international trade bodies on an industry-led traceability protocol to ensure the global solar energy supply chain is free of human rights abuses.”

Download the Smart Energy Council Human Rights Statement >

Download the Smart Energy Council Principles for Suppliers & Members >