Hello solar enthusiasts, today I come to you with some updates from the world of solar companies. The lens of our microscope is focused on Meyer Burger Technology, a Swiss-based solar company known for its heterojunction cell and panel manufacturing. Though the news may seem gloomy at first with Meyer Burger planning to shut down its solar module manufacturing facilities in Germany, there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
In a complex global market, companies like Meyer Burger are constantly making strategic decisions based on various factors to stay sustainable and efficient. Against the backdrop of a challenging market environment in Europe, the company is currently contemplating the closure of one of Europe’s largest operational solar module production sites in Freiberg, Germany, as early as April 2024. The shutting down could affect approximately 500 people.
But there’s still a glimmer of hope as Meyer Burger hasn’t confirmed the closure yet. It will make a final decision by the end of February, considering alternative measures to ensure a level playing field in Europe. One such measure could be a resilience-reward scheme.
On the flip side, the company intends to continue with the production of solar cells at its factory in Talheim, Germany, which will bolster module production at its 2 GW factory currently under construction in the United States. By strategically maintaining its R&D sites in Germany and Switzerland, Meyer Burger continues to innovate and develop technology and equipment that supports its business operations outside Europe.
Shifting our focus to the US, the expansion of Meyer Burger’s business operations is progressing as planned. The company stands to benefit from fully leveraging its leading technology position and the support of favourable industry policies. Anticipation is rife as the ramp-up of its solar module production site in Goodyear is projected to begin in the second quarter of 2024.
A primary reason for this strategic shift by Meyer Burger is the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit 45X system, a part of the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The act aids solar companies by providing tax benefits, thereby encouraging the establishment and operation of solar arrays for home and business use. Kevin in mind, Meyer Burger’s future plan includes the launch of a solar cell and module factory at an undetermined location in Spain—with an ambitious capacity of 3.5 GW.
As consumers who may be considering solar panels for your home, these changes in the solar industry may directly impact you. Advancements and shifts in production may eventually lead to more efficient, affordable panels on the market. Industry adjustments such as these can also positively affect job creation and local economies. Solar companies are innovating and improving constantly, and it’s an exciting time to get involved in solar.
Stay tuned for more insights from the world of solar and to join me in tracking the progress of Meyer Burger as they navigate this shifting landscape. I’ll keep you posted on what the outcomes of these changes may mean for you as consumers and for the future of solar.
Original Article: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/01/17/meyer-burger-to-cease-pv-module-production-in-germany/
