The Copper Mark and the Solar Stewardship Initiative (SSI) have signed a memorandum of understanding that establishes a framework for collaboration aimed at promoting responsible production and sourcing of copper across the solar energy value chain.

The organisations said on November 27 that copper was a major component in solar energy generation and transmission and that rising demand for renewable energy was increasing the need for cooperation between stakeholders involved in copper mining, processing and manufacturing.

The new agreement is intended to connect upstream and downstream assurance efforts and to improve transparency in the movement of copper from mine to end-user.

“We look forward to working with SSI members and connecting them with Copper Mark participants and partners. For example, we hope to jointly deliver chain of custody pilots for responsible copper – from mine site to end-user – to promote transparency and make the business case for responsible production up and down the solar energy value chain,” Copper Mark executive director Michèle Brülhart said.

"This collaboration with the Copper Mark is an important step towards building a truly integrated approach to responsible production in the solar value chain. By connecting upstream and downstream assurance efforts, we can strengthen transparency and accountability from raw materials to finished solar products.

“Together, we aim to create stronger links between the metals and solar sectors ensuring the rapid expansion of renewables is grounded in ethical, traceable and sustainable supply chains," SSI CEO Rachel Owens said.

One of the key ambitions of the collaboration will be a sector leadership project that maps value chains, identifies environmental, social and governance risks and develops solutions to improve performance across the sector.

This work forms part of the Copper Mark’s Initiative for Responsible Renewable Energy Value Chains and will contribute to its Responsible Metals Value Chain Platform scheduled for launch in 2026.

According to the two organisations, the project will create opportunities for direct engagement between companies involved in mining, smelting, refining, recycling and fabricating copper products, as well as downstream manufacturers of solar components, equipment and grid systems.

Civil society organisations, regulatory specialists and academics will also be invited to contribute.