SunPower Corp., a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, announced that AUO SunPower Sdn. Bhd., its joint venture (JV) solar cell fabrication facility (Fab 3) in Malaysia with AU Optronics Corp., has successfully manufactured the first 100 solar cells, yielding a minimum conversion efficiency of 22.2 percent.
"Our initial production runs at Fab 3 exceeded 22 percent conversion efficiency, a truly remarkable achievement," said Tom Werner, SunPower CEO. "This milestone positions AUO SunPower to meet the strong, global demand for our leading solar technology in 2011 and beyond. The combined AUO SunPower team has hit the ground running and is demonstrating our ability to attain our collective high standards of quality and reliability, while meeting our planned production schedules."
Construction and ramp of manufacturing in Fab 3 will continue through 2013 and, when complete, will generate more than 1,400 megawatts per year of high-efficiency solar cells. The company anticipates commercial production to ramp up later this year.
"The AUO SunPower JV combines SunPower's leading solar cell technology with AUO's advanced manufacturing technology and efficient management," said Mr. Feng Liang Chiu, President of AUO SunPower Sdn. Bhd., appointed by AUO. "The AUO SunPower JV is a win-win alliance that provides customers the maximum value."he added.