Oerlikon Solar expanding regional markets

Thanks to Oerlikon's innovative thin-film PV technology, solar modules can be produced at a competitive price and are a real solution to the growing demand of clean energy. Gadir Solar and Chint Solar are focusing on this fast-growing market.

Over 300.000 Modules per year The first stage of Gadir Solar's thin film site in Cadiz, Spain will enable the production of over 300.000 panels per year, subsequent expansion steps are already planned. In addition to the complete a-Si production line Gadir will also receive a R&D- line for the next generation Oerlikon Solar micromorph® technology. Gadir Solar intends to double capacity and convert their a-Si line to higher efficiency micromorph® in the near future. "Oerlikon Solar has proven they are the leader in the thin film silicon PV market, both in terms of their production experience and their unparalleled technology. We have no doubt that we have chosen the right partner to ensure on time production of our thin film silicon modules and realize our growth and cost strategy by leveraging the industries most advanced thin film silicon technology", says David Naranjo Villalonga CEO of Gadir Solar.

First micromorph® equipment in China Chint Solar, associated with the Chint Group, a leading supplier in the world of low- voltage electric products with over 40 percent market share in China, directly enters the market with micromorph®. The move in of the R&D equipment will be by the end of the year, with mass production expansion to 180 MWp until 2010, "We see the future of thin film silicon PV technology in micromorph® technology. By partnering with Oerlikon, we are confident that we can successfully.commercialize on this leading technology", adds Dr. Liyou Yang, President and CEO of Chint Solar, a 20-year veteran in the thin film PV industry. Chint Solar, located in Hangzhou (China), plans to use the R&D line to train for technology development as well as to prepare its staff for the start of mass production in the middle of 2009.

Highly cost efficient production The advanced Oerlikon Solar end-to-end production line enables highly cost effective manufacture of thin-film silicon modules. The end-to-end solution embraces the entire production process from glass cleaning and in-line inspection to testing of the finished solar modules. Oerlikon Solar also delivers its full-service package for commissioning the process equipment and securing production ramp-up and offers the entire metrology system for quality control: the "back end" of module production and its proprietary process technology. "Our capabilities to enhance the efficiency of proven thin-film silicon solar modules result in a direct reduction of cost of ownership. This is a major advantage for our customers in gaining market share", adds Sargent.

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