Energy Conversion Devices Inc. (ECD), a manufacturer of thin-film flexible solar laminate products for the building integrated and commercial rooftop markets, has selected Battle Creek, Mich., as the location for its new 120 MW solar cell manufacturing facility.
The company expects to begin construction on the 265,000 square-foot facility this fall and to be in production by the end of 2009. ECD also has the option to build a second 120 MW facility at the Battle Creek site with the same specifications.
The Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) has offered Michigan business tax credits valued at $41.4 million over 20 years to win the company's business. A $12.6 million federal Community Development Block Grant approved by the MEDC and awarded to Calhoun County will fund infrastructure improvements needed to support the new plant.
Source: ECD