IEA PVPS - Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme 204d ago

In this interview, Garvin Heath and Etienne Drahi, Managers of IEA PVPS Task 12, provide key insights into the environmental sustainability of PV systems and why this topic is more important than ever as PV continues its global growth. They explain what Task 12 works on, from methodologies and life-cycle assessments to improving data quality and enabling a transparent understanding of PV’s environmental impacts. Garvin and Etienne highlight why sustainability is a core component of responsible PV deployment today — and how robust, science-based analysis supports industry, researchers, and stakeholders in making informed decisions. They also share some of the most important findings from recent Task 12 reports, including updated metrics, trends in environmental performance, and evolving practices for assessing the impacts of PV technologies across their full life cycle. The conversation further explores how Task 12 collaborates across borders within the IEA PVPS network and beyond, bringing together experts worldwide to harmonise approaches, exchange data, and advance a common understanding of sustainability in the PV sector. Garvin and Etienne describe why this global cooperation is essential to ensure comparability, credibility, and continuous improvement. Looking ahead, they outline the priorities for Task 12 in the coming years — from refining assessment methods to addressing emerging topics as PV technologies evolve. Finally, they share one key message they believe stakeholders and decision makers should remember when it comes to the sustainability of PV. This conversation is part of our ongoing series with IEA PVPS experts, bringing you insights from the researchers and practitioners shaping the future of sustainable PV. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to stay updated on the latest in PV sustainability, environmental analysis, and expert insights from the IEA PVPS network.