Company analysis and scores are reproduced from WHEB’s earlier published profile and have not been updated to the holdings date.
First Solar
First Solar is a US-based manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.
Visit their site- Enterprise value
- US$18.4bn
- Region
- USA
- Theme
- Cleaner Energy
- Sub-theme
- Solar power
Impact Score
First Solar modules are the key element in a solar farm and represent a critical technology in decarbonising the global economy. Solar PV is a near-zero emission technology with a dramatically lower carbon footprint than traditional power generation technologies. While First Solar is differentiated, the overall market is extremely competitive.
Fundamental Quality
Solar module manufacturing is a commoditised market with intense price competition. First Solar is though the only large-scale solar module manufacturer that uses thin-film technology. The technology provides some level of differentiation as does the company’s manufacturing locations which avoid China. The company is conservatively run, has a strong approach to ESG issues and has a solid and experienced management team.
UN SDGs
First Solar's products directly support SDG 7 which is focused on the generation and provision of affordable and clean energy.
Find out moreRisk of negative impacts
- Generation of electronic waste at the end of the product's life
- Use of hazardous chemicals in manufacturing
- Use of energy in manufacturing
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