The purpose of this Standard for Photovoltaic (PV) modules is to establish product sustainability performance criteria and corporate performance metrics that exemplify sustainability leadership in the market.

The Standard provides a framework and standardized set of performance objectives for manufacturers and the supply chain in the design and manufacture of PV module components. For purchasers, this Standard provides a consensus-based definition of key sustainability attributes and performance metrics, alleviating individual purchasers from the arduous and complex task of defining sustainability performance for PV modules. This Standard can be used within an established system for the identification of sustainability/environmentally preferable products by purchasers and to provide market recognition for conforming products and brand manufacturers.

This Standard was developed based on the principle that only sustainability leadership products, those in the top third of the market, are expected to qualify to the Standard at the Bronze level at the date of publication of the Standard. Only a few products are expected to meet the highest performance level (Gold) at the date of publication of the Standard.

This Standard will be continually maintained and periodically reviewed to ensure that the definition of sustainability leadership, as reflected in the performance criteria, progresses with the evolution of technology and services and sustainability/environmental improvements in the product sector.