Recording of Tuesday, May 06, 2025 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2025 | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 20:51 .

Solar Stewardship Initiative Sets Ambitious Goal for 100 Assessments by 2025 to Boost Supply Chain Transparency and Sustainability.

The Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI) is a global effort to enhance sustainability in the solar industry, addressing regulatory challenges and social issues like forced labor. Established two years ago, SSI aims to create Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards specific to the solar sector alongside supply chain traceability protocols. This initiative involves collaboration with stakeholders such as civil society groups, investors, manufacturers, and trade associations including SolarPower Europe and UK. Member companies must comply with high ESG standards through site-level assessments by third-party auditors aligned with OECD and UN human rights guidelines. With 60% of major manufacturers participating globally, SSI promotes transparency while supporting compliance with legislative requirements like the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). The initiative emphasizes comprehensive evaluations involving independent assessments categorized into gold, silver or bronze levels shared publicly on their website. A significant focus is placed on silicon traceability due to its risk profile within the value chain. Future objectives include conducting extensive assessments equivalent to 100 gigawatts—surpassing EU/UK demand—and increasing awareness among civil society through outreach activities.

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Speaker

Rachel Owens
CEO
Solar Stewardship Initiative
Belgium

Talk of session: Utility-Scale Solar Power I: Trends in Development, Construction & Operation

The utility-scale solar segment expanded its market share in Europe last year despite growing challenges. Developers often still face long approval times, grid connection hurdles, and increasing local opposition to large ground-mounted projects. EPCs must navigate volatile prices and rapidly evolving product portfolios, while operators face declining market values for solar power in many European countries. Additionally, ESG compliance adds another layer of complexity across the value chain. This session will provide: Key risks and opportunities for utility-scale solar developers in Europe Best practices for EPC and O&M of PV plants Asset management strategies for profitable long-term operations Panel discussion on how to successfully develop and operate utility-scale PV in Europe.

Further Talks of this session:

Welcome & Introduction

Speaker

Dr. Benedikt Ortmann
Global Director Origination & Business Development Projects
BayWa r.e. AG
Germany

To Talk

Trends in Development, Building & Operating PV Power Plants

Speaker

Stefan Müller
COO
Enerparc AG
Germany

To Talk

Key Considerations in Choosing EPC Contractors for PV

Speaker

Alexandra Fioux
Senior Construction Contracts Manager
Engie
Spain

To Talk

Contractual Quality Assurance Smoothing the Path for Finance

Speaker

Daniel Barandalla
Solar Advisory Lead EMEALA
UL LLC
U.S.

To Talk

Panel Discussion: How to Overcome Obstacles for Utility-Scale Solar in Europe?

Speaker

To Talk