SolarWorld Expands Production Capacity in the U.S.

SolarWorld AG will expand both solar-panel and high-efficiency cell production in Hillsboro, OR. The plan is to expand U.S. capacities in a first step from 380 to 530 megawatts (MW), with the option to expand up to 630 MW. Along with the company’s manufacturing in Germany, company-wide annual production capacity for solar panels will rise to about 1,300 megawatts.

The company is the largest manufacturer of solar technology in the United States, in Germany and on a global scale outside of Asia.

SolarWorld also is increasing production of monocrystalline PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) cells. With this technology, the company will continue to produce cells for solar panels at 280 watts-peak and higher, further advancing their efficiency.

SolarWorld’s factory in Hillsboro already is the largest producer of PERC cells worldwide, with 335 (MW) of annual production capacity. Expansion will add another 100 MW of capacity, for a total of 435 MW.

With the expansions, SolarWorld is responding to growing U.S. demand. The market is expected to grow by more than 30% this year and again in 2015.

“U.S. customers demand more and more modules with high efficiency and longevity,” said Dr. Frank Asbeck, CEO and chairman of SolarWorld AG. “That’s exactly what comes with SolarWorld modules made in the USA.”