Mainz, Gemany [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Yesterday, SCHOTT Solar inaugurated its new 75 million euro thin film solar manufacturing plant in Jena, Germany, which has a capacity of 33 megawatts per year.
The new plant produces amorphous silicon (ASI) thin-film modules, which utilizes SCHOTT’s other business — production of glass.
SCHOTT’s thin film process calls for ASI to be vapor deposited onto a thin pane of glass. Each day, more than 1,000 framed standard modules 130 x 110 cm in size will be manufactured for roof-top PV systems and ground-mounted PV systems. By the year 2010, it plans to expand its production capacities to 450 MW per year with respect to both cells and modules.
“By engaging in high-technology mass production of thin-film modules, we are creating a second source of revenue for our photovoltaic activities,” said Professor Udo Ungeheuer, Chairman of the Board of Management of SCHOTT.
Only a few days ago, SCHOTT and silicon manufacturer WACKER set the foundations for a new solar wafer manufacturing facility of their joint venture, WACKER SCHOTT Solar, in Jena. SCHOTT also has plans to expand its product capacities for thin-film modules to 100 MW per year by 2010.
