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The answer is a resounding YES!

A recently released life cycle assessment from ISIS (Institute of Science in Society) shows that not only do PVs reduce fossil fuel energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, some panels have full carbon paybacks in as little as 1.1 years. To capture the full energy payback data, the study examined the entire PV life cycle beginning with mining of quartz sand needed for silicone PV modules.

Though concerns about the energy consumption, materials, and chemicals used during production are valid, the benefits overwhelmingly outweigh the costs. With continued technological innovation like thin film and paint applications, the carbon payback is looking better every day.

Read the full report here.