Heraeus Photovoltaics, the worldwide leading supplier of metallization solutions to the PV industry, announced today a joint development partnership with Ulbrich of Austria, a global leader in the production of PV ribbon products for traditional solder and conductive adhesive technologies. Under this cooperation agreement, the two companies will focus on developing innovative products for assembly and packaging technology in the solar module industry.
The global collaboration capitalizes on the market leadership and proven technological track record of both companies to bring new innovation and performance to solar cell interconnection technology. The partnership combines the expertise of Heraeus as the market leader of silver paste for the solar cell industry and Ulbrich’s innovations in PV ribbon technologies to increase the electrical output and performance of solar modules. With its extensive background in materials science, Heraeus will use its partnership with Ulbrich to expand its renewable energy footprint by establishing a new product line developing materials for the production of PV modules.
According to Dr. Andre Kobelt, the Chief Commercial & Technology Officer for Heraeus, “The announcement of this cooperation with Ulbrich is an important step which could significantly lower the cost per watt for PV module industry. We view this agreement as an exciting opportunity for Heraeus to embark upon as we look to continue to expand our global footprint in the field of renewable energies.”
About the Heraeus Photovoltaics Global Business Unit
The Heraeus Photovoltaics Global Business Unit is an industry leading developer and manufacturer of silver metallization pastes for the photovoltaic industry. For over 40 years, Heraeus has built a reputation of innovation, extensive research and new product development in thick film technologies for some of the most prominent companies within a variety of industries. In the field of photovoltaics, the Heraeus Photovoltaics Business Unit applies this history and its innovative technology to offer metallization pastes for solar cell applications. The Heraeus SOL Series of silver pastes is specially formulated to provide higher efficiencies and wider processing windows, resulting in better yields and higher output for cell manufacturers.
About the Heraeus Group
Heraeus, the technology group headquartered in Hanau, Germany, is a leading international family-owned company formed in 1851. With expertise, a focus on innovations, operational excellence and an entrepreneurial leadership, we strive to continuously improve the businesses of our customers around the world. We create high-quality solutions for our customers and strengthen their long-term competitiveness by combining material expertise with technological know-how. Our ideas are focused on important issues such as the environment, energy, health, mobility and industrial applications. Our portfolio ranges from components to coordinated material systems which are used in a wide variety of industries, including the steel, electronics, chemical, automotive and telecommunications industries.
In the 2016 financial year, Heraeus generated revenues without precious metals of €2.0 bn and a total revenue of €21.5 bn. With approximately 12,400 employees worldwide in more than 100 subsidiaries in 40 countries, Heraeus holds a leading position in its global markets. In 2016, the Foundation for Family Businesses named Heraeus as one of the “Top 10 Family Businesses” in Germany.