Ernst Schweizer launches sustainability initiative for PV mounting systems

Solar.Pro.Tool, a planning tool by Ernst Schweizer AG, has been enhanced to automatically calculate the greenhouse gas emissions generated during the production of the PV mounting system MSP. Using aluminium produced in a low-emission process keeps greenhouse gases particularly low. Over the coming months, Schweizer will be making emission values for further mounting systems available, such as for the roof-integrated photovoltaic system Solrif.

Transparent greenhouse gas emissions data for each system configuration

Solar.Pro.Tool by Schweizer automatically displays the greenhouse gas emissions caused by the MSP mounting system according to the individual system configuration. This makes for a more accurate picture of the energy amortization time of a project. Environmentally conscious investors, architects, EPCs and installers can check important information related to their building project’s carbon footprint. Over the coming months, Schweizer will be making emission values for further mounting systems available.

(Foto: Andreas Benz)

CO2 reduction through low-emission aluminium

Ernst Schweizer AG believes in transparent and sustainable processes and partnerships, both during production and in procurement. A particular focus lies on the largest group of materials used in the production of solar mounting systems – aluminium. That is why Schweizer’s aluminium procurers include a producer of primary aluminium, which is produced using only renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind and solar. The carbon footprint of this – generally very energy intensive – material thus lies around 75 percent below the primary global average.

“For this year, the low-emission aluminium from that particular supplier is expected to emit around 7,400 tons of CO2 less than the EU average for the same production volume. Here at Schweizer, ecological responsibility starts in procurement. Using carefully sourced raw materials also helps our customers to reach their own sustainability goals,” explains Roman Berger, Head of Building Shell at Schweizer.

Roman Berger, Head of Building Shell at Ernst Schweizer AG

Sustainability along the entire supply chain

To ensure sustainability along the entire supply chain, Ernst Schweizer AG has defined a code of conduct outlining working conditions, the environment and business integrity, which is based on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

“When it comes to procurement and production, Ernst Schweizer pays close attention to the various aspects of sustainability, such as global warming, CO2 emissions, resource efficiency, a ban on child labour and fair pay. This commitment also stretches to our suppliers and partner companies,” explains Sjef de Bruijn, Business Unit Manager Solar Systems at Ernst Schweizer.