May 7 - Representatives of leading international companies in the solar photovoltaic industry have formed the Global Solar Council, a CEO-level industry coalition whose aim is to expand the global deployment of solar energy in a sustainable and cost-compe

Global Solar Council members will engage with policymakers worldwide to demonstrate the progress towards abundant, affordable and low emissions energy already made possible by the solar industry and to emphasize the importance of a supportive policy and trade environment, which will enable the ongoing development of competitively-priced solar energy, driving job creation and economic growth.

Through its members, the Global Solar Council brings industry knowledge and insights from all sides of the solar photovoltaic value chain; from the supply of materials to product manufacturing and financing, policy, research and innovation, cross-border cooperation, and grid development and management.

Roland-Jan Meijer, the newly-appointed executive director of the Global Solar Council said: "The Global Solar Council is an important and timely industry initiative. It demonstrates a strong commitment by key players in the sector to work together to continue to make solar energy a global success."

Bob Hansen, CEO of Dow Corning added, "Solar energy has already proven itself a viable contribution to energy sources in many markets, particularly in the EU and the US, and the industry continues to improve the cost-effectiveness of this technology. The Global Solar Council will enable us to continue the expansion of cost-effective solar power in collaboration with governments and other stakeholders."

Suntech CEO, Dr Zhengrong Shi said, "A thriving solar industry is an important contributor to economic growth and employment in developing regions. By joining forces in the Global Solar Council, we will be able to demonstrate these benefits to our key stakeholders with one voice and drive forward the growth of the green economy."

The Global Solar Council's role is complementary to regional trade associations and other stakeholders. Members will work in concert with organizations such as EPIA, APVIA, and SEIA to support their efforts on a global level.

Global Solar Council founding members and their representatives are Applied Materials (Dr. Charles F. Gay, president, Applied Solar), Dow Corning (Robert D. Hansen, CEO), DuPont (David B. Miller, president, Dupont Electronics & Communication), First Solar (Michael J. Ahearn, chairman and interim CEO), Lanco Solar (Vutukuri Saibaba, CEO), Phoenix Solar (Dr. Andreas Hänel, CEO), and Suntech (Dr. Zhengrong Shi, CEO)

www.globalsolarcouncil.net

Topics