Hello everyone! Today, I am excited to share some interesting news from the world of solar, focusing on collaborations between solar companies and the increasing investment in solar technologies. If you’re looking to install solar panels for your home, understanding the manufacturing process can provide valuable insights into how solar companies provide you with efficient and reliable solar solutions.
You probably didn’t know that a significant component in a solar array for home use is the silicon wafer. These wafers are used to make the solar modules that generate electricity from sunlight. Recently, a significant event in this space occurred. NorSun, a leading solar wafer manufacturer, signed a multi-year contract with Heliene, a renowned solar module maker. This contract means NorSun will meet Heliene’s annual requirement of silicon wafers starting in 2026.
Heliene is no newbie to the solar industry. The company, which has been manufacturing solar modules since 2010 in Ontario, Canada, made quite an impressive move in 2018 by opening another manufacturing facility in Mountain Iron, Minnesota. It didn’t stop there! The company recently announced a $10 million investment to further expand its manufacturing and assembly line capabilities.
Isn’t it fascinating how solar companies are continually reinvesting in their production capabilities? This investment doubled the first installation’s capacity from 150 MW to a whopping 300 MW. The company promises that these upgrades will improve the efficiency of the production line, translating into better, more efficient solar panels for your home.
To deliver on this contract, NorSun is building an all-new 5 GW wafer factory in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In fact, just this June, NorSun announced plans to invest $620 million in this new facility, which will create silicon ingots and solar wafers. This hefty investment underscores how committed solar companies are to bolstering the supply chain and advancing the solar industry.
The new NorSun plant is slated to commence production in 2026. Besides contributing to the availability of U.S-made silicon ingots and wafers, it also promises to stimulate the local economy by creating 320 jobs. Even more thrilling is the news that the production has the potential to be expanded up to a staggering 10 GW!
So what does this collaboration between solar companies mean for you, as a consumer contemplating solar array for home use? It assures you of a consistent supply of high-quality, efficient solar panels, made right here in the U.S. It’s a testament to the beauty of synergy, innovation, and commitment to a sustainable future that benefits everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates from the realm of solar, where exciting developments never cease!
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/08/15/heliene-to-procure-u-s-made-solar-wafers-from-norsun/