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Ethical Solar: Why Supply Chain Transparency Matters

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The solar industry is built on the promise of clean, sustainable energy, but recent reports have highlighted serious concerns about forced labour in some solar panel supply chains, particularly in China’s Xinjiang region. Despite international efforts to prevent human rights violations in manufacturing, many major solar brands continue to source materials from regions linked to forced labour.

At Solar Power NI, we believe that renewable energy should not come at the cost of ethical labour practices. That’s why we partner with SOLARWATT, a German-engineered solar panel manufacturer that adheres to strict modern slavery policies and transparent supply chain ethics. Unlike many other brands, SOLARWATT panels are produced in Europe, ensuring compliance with ethical labour standards while maintaining industry-leading performance and durability.


The Problem: Forced Labour in the Solar Industry

Several reports have linked major solar manufacturers—including some of the world’s biggest suppliers—to forced Uyghur labour in Xinjiang, China. This is particularly concerning given that the region produces a significant percentage of the world’s polysilicon, a key component in solar panels.

Key brands which have been linked to forced labour:

GCL-Poly, East Hope Group, Daqo New Energy, Xinte Energy, Jinko Solar, JA Solar, LONGi Solar, Trina Solar, BYD, Hanwha Q Cells, and Canadian Solar. Some of which are available from suppliers based here in Northern Ireland.

Governments worldwide, including the UK, the US, and the EU, are introducing regulations and bans to prevent imports of solar components linked to forced labour. However, a lack of supply chain transparency remains a significant challenge, making it difficult for consumers to know whether their solar panels have been ethically sourced.


The SOLARWATT Difference: Ethical, High-Performance Solar Panels

At Solar Power NI, we recognise that the future of solar energy must be sustainable, ethical, and transparent. That’s why we have partnered with SOLARWATT, a German-based solar manufacturer committed to fair labour practices and sustainable production.

Here’s why SOLARWATT panels stand out:
✅ 100% German-made – No reliance on unethical supply chains.
✅ Strict modern slavery policies – Fully compliant with European labour laws.
✅ 30-year product and performance warranty – Industry-leading durability and reliability.
✅ High-performance glass-glass technology – Superior efficiency and resilience.

By choosing SOLARWATT panels, you’re not only investing in clean energy—you’re supporting a future where sustainability and ethical manufacturing go hand in hand.

Top Tips to Avoid Choosing the Wrong Solar Panels

With so many solar options on the market, it’s essential to make an informed decision when choosing your panels. Some suppliers may not be upfront about the panels they install, which could lead to poor performance, lower efficiency, or even panels linked to unethical supply chains. Here are our top tips to make sure you’re getting a high-quality, transparent solar solution:

✅ Check if your supplier openly advertises the panels they use
Reputable solar companies are proud of their products and will clearly state the brand and model of panels they install. If a supplier is vague or avoids mentioning specific brands, it could be a red flag.

✅ Verify the panel name on your quote
Make sure your quote includes the exact make and model of the solar panels being installed. Some suppliers may promise premium panels but install lower-quality alternatives. If the details aren’t on your quote, ask for full transparency.

✅ Research the manufacturer yourself
Don’t just take the supplier’s word for it—check out the manufacturer online. Look into their reputation, warranty policies, and whether they follow ethical labour practices. Brands like SOLARWATT are known for their high-quality, ethically sourced panels, while others may have links to forced labour or poor manufacturing standards.

✅ Hidden details? It could be dodgy
If a solar provider is unwilling to share details about the panels, manufacturer, or performance specifications, this should raise concerns. Transparency is key when investing in solar, and any supplier hiding crucial information may not have your best interests at heart.

At Solar Power NI, we only use trusted, premium solar panels with clear specifications and warranties. We believe in full transparency, so you know exactly what you’re getting and can invest in a high-performance, ethically produced solar system with confidence.


The Future of Ethical Solar

The transition to renewable energy must be built on responsible sourcing. As the UK moves toward greater solar adoption, it’s essential that homeowners and businesses choose manufacturers that uphold ethical standards.

At Solar Power NI, we believe in full supply chain transparency, which is why we only work with trusted brands like SOLARWATT. If you’re considering solar, make sure your investment supports both a greener planet and ethical labour practices.

Ready to switch to a solar system you can trust? Get in touch with Solar Power NI today to learn more about our ethically sourced, high-performance solar solutions.

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