Phoenix Solar AG signs module supply contract
The supply of new generation thin film modules with dimensions of up to 5.7 m2 has been agreed. Signet Solar is a module manufacturer which opened its module factory in Döbeln, Germany, last June. Döbeln will also be the main European site of the Californian technology company. Production of the solar modules is scheduled to start in mid 2008. The production facilities for the new thin-film modules have been provided by Applied Materials GmbH & Co. KG, which is headquartered in Alzenau/Germany. The parent company Applied Materials Inc. manufacturers machinery for the production of computer chips and flat screens. With facilities designed for the production of the world's largest thin film photovoltaic modules, the costs of manufacturing these modules per watt will be among the lowest in the world.
As from September 2008, Phoenix Solar will take delivery from Signet Solar of thin film modules made from amorphous silicon. From 2010 onwards, deliveries will be supplemented by micromorphous silicon technology. The amorphous silicon solar modules have nominal output of more than 80, 160 and 340 watts respectively and are available in different sizes, depending on the output. The largest module which is 2.2 m x 2.6 m is perfectly adapted for use in large ground mounted power plants.
"This long term framework contract will help us to secure more module volumes for ground mounted power plants, a segment in which Phoenix Solar is one of Europe's leading companies. The size of the modules is a milestone in technological progress which will allow significant cuts in the system costs", commented Manfred Bächler, Chief Technology Officer of Phoenix Solar AG.
"In Phoenix Solar, we have a partner with long standing experience in the construction of ground-mounted power plants and a company which was one of the first to opt for thin film technology. We are delighted to have signed our first major supply contract with Phoenix", said Gunter Ziegenbalg, Chief Executive Officer of Signet Solar GmbH.
