DuPont Opens North American PV Research Facility

DuPont opened a North American photovoltaic applications lab at its Chestnut Run facility in Wilmington, DE to support materials development for the fast-growing photovoltaic solar energy market. More than 55 representatives from the photovoltaic industry joined DuPont chair and CEO Ellen Kullman, David Miller, president – DuPont Electronics & Communications, and Delaware Gov. Jack Markell and other government leaders for the facility’s opening.

The new DuPont Photovoltaic Applications Lab in Wilmington, DE will accelerate introduction of new photovoltaic materials and engineering innovations by linking DuPont science and engineering with full-size module fabrication and state-of-the-art testing capabilities.

“The global demand for renewable energy is strong and growing,” Kullman said. “DuPont is responding to the demand by collaborating with customers, governments and other stakeholders to deliver high-performance innovation that addresses head-on energy challenges today and into the future. This lab will allow us to access tremendous scientific talent to develop the technology and materials for converting the energy of the sun into electricity, contributing to decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.”

The lab will accelerate introduction of new photovoltaic materials and engineering innovations by linking DuPont science and engineering with full-size module fabrication and state-of-the-art testing capabilities. It will provide an enhanced platform to enable innovation, technology exchanges and research collaborations among DuPont, customers, industrial partners, research institutes and universities. The lab is designed to advance state-of-the-art solar module design, accelerate time to market in photovoltaic innovation and deliver cost-effective, high-performance solutions for the photovoltaic industry.

“This lab expands the capabilities of the global network of photovoltaic research and technical centers we have established in Asia and Europe,” said Miller. “As a result, DuPont will accelerate its ability to develop new materials technologies that meet the needs of the market. Through our partnerships, we will be able to help create solar modules that run more efficiently, last longer and make solar energy a viable alternative for everyone.”