Next Generation Thin Film Solar Modules

Location :: Phoenix, AZ USA
Index Membership :: N/A
Sector :: Technology
Industry :: Semiconductor - Specialized
Employees :: 723

First Solar Inc.

First Solar was founded in 1999 to commercialize an advanced thin film semiconductor process for manufacturing cost effective PV modules. In 2002, the company began pilot production of its solar modules for commercial applications, and by the end of 2004, completed the qualification of its base module production plant. In 2005, First Solar initiated a plan to replicate its base module production plant in order to meet demand for its products, with total current and planned module production capacity totaling 175MW by the second half of 2007. First Solar's objective is to use our advanced thin film module technology and manufacturing capabilities to enable cost effective solar electricity to be deployed throughout the world.

TECHNOLOGY & PRODUCTS
First Solar designs and manufactures PV modules using a proprietary thin film semiconductor technology. We manufacture our PV modules on high throughput, automated production lines that integrate each production step, from semiconductor deposition to final assembly and testing, into one continuous process flow. Our manufacturing process transforms a panel of glass into a complete PV module in less than three hours, using very small amounts of non-silicon semiconductor material. FS Series 2 PV modules use a unique, single-junction polycrystalline thin film design that employs cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the absorption layer with cadmium sulfide (CdS) as the window layer. CdTe is optimally matched to the solar spectrum and has a low thermal coefficient, resulting in high energy production using only a small fraction of the semiconductor material required by traditional solar modules. FS Series 2 PV modules are cost effective and recyclable, independently tested by leading US and European institutes for reliability and safety, and proven to perform as predicted with high energy performance. First Solar Product Design and Manufacturing Center

SOLAR APPLICATIONS
First Solar PV modules are optimized for use in gridconnected applications and are sold to leading solar project developers for use in commercial solar projects. First Solar application engineers work closely with our project development partners to design the optimal balance of systems solutions for use with First Solar PV modules, ensuring high performance and long term reliability.

PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE LEADERSHIP
First Solar is committed to Improving the Global Environment and the health and safety of our employees, customers and communities:

• First Solar has integrated its environmental mission into every aspect of the product life cycle – from raw material sourcing through end of life reclamation and recycling.
• First Solar operates a product life cycle that perpetually replenishes itself and continuously improves the environment in the process.
• First Solar has completed a long term agreement with a major international insurance company to fund the estimated future costs of reclaiming and recycling First Solar modules at the end of their use. This Recycling and Reimbursement Policy is the first arrangement of this type in the industry.

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