In order to improve transparency and sustainability in the solar industry, Corsica Sole, in collaboration with CVE, GreenYellow, Mirova and Tenergie, has launched a joint initiative based on the international ICS (Initiative for Compliance and Sustainability) standard.

The aim is to harmonise social and environmental audits in the photovoltaic industry, particularly for the production of solar modules.

This initiative will strengthen the acceptability of audits among suppliers, avoid duplication and enable potential or actual risks to be assessed using an internationally recognised standard.

At the same time, the group seeks to:

• Harmonise and simplify the conduct of audits,
• Pool and analyse the results obtained,
• Improve transparency and CSR compliance in the sector.

Although these companies are not subject to French regulations on due diligence, they are voluntarily strengthening their policies for managing risks related to human rights, labour and the environment.

Initial audits and encouraging results for the future

The first audits were carried out in early 2025 at the factories of the leading photovoltaic module manufacturers. This collective approach facilitated the acceptance of controls, identified risks and enabled the launch of effective corrective action plans.

For 2026, the group plans to:

• continue ICS audits at other production sites,
• repeat checks at factories that have implemented corrective measures,
• launch audits further upstream in the value chain to strengthen overall compliance.

A rapidly growing group committed to CSR

Building on these initial successes, the group expanded in September 2025 with the arrival of new members: Arkolia, Girasole Energies, Technique Solaire and UNIT E. The ReSpirE Énergies association, launched in early October to create a forum for exchange and support the development of CSR skills in the sector, also joined the initiative.

This collaboration illustrates the strength of the collective and the commitment of French players to a more ethical, sustainable and transparent photovoltaic sector, where the energy transition is accompanied by a responsible supply chain that respects social and environmental issues.