SCHOTT Solar starts construction of $500 million solar plant in New Mexico

SCHOTT Solar has broken ground on its first phase 200,000 square foot facility in the Mesa del Sol region of Albuquerque, New Mexico that will produce photovoltaic modules and receivers for concentrated solar thermal power plants (CSP). SCHOTT Solar will invest approximately $100 million to start production in spring 2009. Eventually, the facility could be expanded to 800,000 square feet at a cost of $500 million and could employ approximately 1,500 workers.

"Today is an extremely proud day for SCHOTT," said Dr. Udo Ungeheuer, Chairman of SCHOTT's Board of Management. "With the groundbreaking in New Mexico, SCHOTT is further demonstrating the company's position as a global leader in solar technology and our ongoing commitment to developing the North American market through strategic investment."

"Recently I announced that SCHOTT Solar was coming to New Mexico and would build a new $500 million-dollar facility to Mesa Del Sol," said Governor Richardson, attending the ceremony. "Just weeks later - I am pleased to say - SCHOTT Solar has officially broken ground on their new solar manufacturing facility. SCHOTT is one of the largest, most prestigious solar companies in the world and I am honored to welcome them to New Mexico."

The plans for the new facility call for the building to be completed at the end of the summer. Installation of the manufacturing equipment will take place and the interior will then be prepped.

In March 2009, the first receiver, a critical component for concentrated solar power plants, is expected to be available for sale. The first photovoltaic panel manufactured for sale is scheduled to roll off the production line in April 2009.