T-Solar Global SA says it has begun volume production of the world's largest solar photovoltaic modules using a SunFab Thin Film Line supplied by Applied Materials Inc. The solar panels, sized at 5.7 square meters, are ideally suited for large-scale solar farm applications, where installation costs can be reduced by about 20% over smaller-scale panels.
The SunFab line and modules produced by T-Solar have been awarded Intercert Certification, verifying achievement of all manufacturing, module efficiency and yield specifications. T-Solar is expected to produce 700,000 square meters of PV panels annually, with the potential to generate up to 45 MW equivalent module production per year with the SunFab line. T-Solar plans to eventually expand the line by 40% and expects to gain further production efficiencies and reduced material costs.
T-Solar and Applied Materials have also entered into a multiyear service agreement that guarantees fixed maintenance costs and is aimed at driving constant improvement in line output.
T-Solar's SunFab line will also receive ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and EMAS certification for quality management and environmental production management, and the line meets OSHA's European safety and health standards. In addition, T-Solar is a member of PV Cycle, the European association committed to PV waste management and recycling.
SOURCES: T-Solar Group, Applied Materials
