May 30 2008
Solar Thin Films, Inc., a developer, manufacturer and marketer of manufacturing equipment for the production of "thin-film" amorphous silicon and CIGS photovoltaic modules, has signed a memorandum of understanding with China Singyes Holding Limited to build out 100MW of module manufacturing capacity in China. Under the MOU, Solar Thin Films will supply equipment, technology and general engineering and design support, and retain certain rights outside of China to market and distribute building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products.
“This proposed arrangement with China Singyes could be a significant step forward in our goal to become a leader in supplying cost-effective, thin film photovoltaic module manufacturing equipment,” commented Peter Lewis chief executive officer of Solar Thin Films.. Combined with our recently announced $12.3 million order from Grupo Unisolar, S.A to build a 5MW turn-key a-SI Module plant in Spain, it clearly shows the progress we are making.
“Pursuant to the MOU, Solar Thin Films expects to install cost-effective thin-film photovoltaic manufacturing equipment through 2011. Equipment installation is expected to commence as early as the fourth quarter of 2008. The initial production and sale of BIPV products could begin in 2009,
“This is a terrific opportunity for us as China Singyes is one of the country’s largest curtain wall engineering companies, with numerous projects inside and outside China, and a demonstrated commitment to expand an already existing presence in the solar field,” concluded Lewis. “Our rights to market BIPV output from the new facility outside of China would also open new customer channels and markets for us within the construction industry.”
Solar Thin Films and China Singyes are currently minority shareholders and board members of CG Solar, a “thin-film” module manufacturing company located in Weihai, China, that utilizes equipment produced by Solar Thin Films.