A recent study showing Chinese-made solar panels to be nearly double in their carbon intensity compared to those manufactured in Europe needs to be considered with a sense of perspective.
Shrink That Footprint’s Lindsay Wilson says he finds the concern baffling considering what the Chinese solar panels may replace – namely, coal fired power generation.
Data from the study in question apparently shows a carbon footprint of about 32g CO2-e/kWh for European panels (when installed in Europe) and 68g for Chinese panels. That 68g should be compared to coal-fired generation which can be anything up to 1,420g CO2-e/kWh.
Mr. Wilson says the idea of a “carbon tariff” as suggested by the study authors is surreal.
“I’m all all for a global carbon tax, but one just for solar panels is a lot more about protectionism than it is about environmentalism.”
“We can’t spend decades filling our homes with cheap goods made in China, from cheap labor and un-taxed dirty energy, and then decide we need a carbon tariff just for solar panels (a technology that helps to cut carbon).”
While China is often demonised on environmental issues, issues it is striving to address, it should be remembered the nation has made solar power more affordable and accessible to everyone. As the world’s factory, many companies outsource their emissions to China; including some of those claiming “locally made” solar equipment – as they may source components from China.
Through the supply of cheap solar panels, China has also significantly boosted job creation in the countries where those panels are used in the form of installation and ancillary services.
Anything that increases the cost of solar panels – such as a carbon tariff or additional duties – will likely result in dampened uptake, with knock-on effects for employment and carbon emissions.
The argument for “buy local” in terms of solar panels is complex – but it is often more about lining the pockets of a comparative few rather than benefiting many – or the environment.
