The transition to renewable energy is essential for our future. For Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg – as for Berlin as a whole – this primarily means significantly increasing the number of photovoltaic systems installed on rooftops. However, this shift brings a global issue into focus: the working conditions in the production of polysilicon, the key raw material for solar modules, are alarming. Numerous reports reveal the existence of state-imposed forced labour in China.
According to new EU regulations, public purchasers will be required to buy solar modules made with polysilicon that does not originate from Chinese supply chains. See, for example, Article 25(7) of the Net Zero Industry Act [resilience criterion]. The forthcoming EU legislation on forced labour is moving in the same direction.

A challenge for innovative suppliers has been issued: Beschaffung von Solarmodulen ohne Zwangsarbeit / procurement of solar modules without forced labor - KOINNOvationsplatz

Please submit your solutions and suggestions until 5 April 2026!