Stion modules have been certified by TUV Rheinland as compliant with the European Union Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. By completing this testing voluntarily Stion continues to demonstrate its commitment to environmental responsibility. Stion is one of only a small number of solar module manufacturers producing modules compliant with RoHS standards.
The RoHS directive limits the concentration for any component of a certified device to 0.01% for cadmium, and 0.1% for lead, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ether. Many crystalline silicon modules currently use lead-based solder to interconnect each cell. CdTe based thin-film modules have cadmium as a primary constituent and are prohibited in some countries or require sophisticated recycling programs to deal with the Cd at the end of the useful life of the product. Recent press announcements indicate that some CdTe producers may be cutting back on their commitment to recycle modules at end of life or may have underestimated to future cost of these programs. Stion modules utilize non-lead based solder materials and are lead free. Stion directly deposits semiconductor film onto glass avoiding the use of large quantities of oils, surfactants, etching fluids, acids, and harsh cleaning agents that are employed in silicon ingot, wafer, and cell processing used by most crystalline silicon producers. Stion thereby avoids the potential risk of an environmentally harmful event and the cost associated with reprocessing or disposal of these hazardous wastes.
In a statement from Stion CEO Chet Farris, Although solar modules are exempt from RoHS standards, we are committed to environmental stewardship and the continual pursuit of ways to further reduce the environmental impact of our products, factories and that of our suppliers. Stion solar modules are one of the cleanest power generation options in the world. Stion is dedicated to providing the best value to our customers; Stion Simply Better for the environment.
