Applied Materials cuts IEC-certified SunFab materials costs by 22%

October 29, 2009
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email

As developments to the company’s SunFab thin-film module manufacturing line continue, Applied Materials has managed to cut the cost of materials on the line by 22%. The company’s next-generation module technology was applied to establish some process efficiency updates, coupled with new lower pricing arrangements with materials suppliers.

Applied has also gained IEC certification from TÜV Intercert for SunFab panels that will be using these new lower-cost materials and processes for aperture area conversion efficiencies of up to 9.7%. The certification applies to both single- and tandem-junction modules in all panel sizes – good news for those customers wishing to upgrade panel performance without having to seek additional certification.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

“This achievement demonstrates Applied’s ongoing commitment to reducing the cost of manufacturing panels with our SunFab Thin Film Line to $1/watt and below,” said Tom Lacey, vice president and general manager of Applied Materials’ SunFab Thin Film Solar Group.

Read Next

Premium
December 15, 2025
Imperial Star's DomesticIQ calculator aims to bring some clarity to the complexities of navigating US solar domestic content requirements.
December 15, 2025
Solar manufacturer SEG Solar has started construction on a 3GW ingot and wafer manufacturing plant in Indonesia.
December 15, 2025
Spanish renewables developer Acciona Energia has sold a 49% minority stake in a 1.3GW US solar PV project portfolio.
December 15, 2025
France has awarded 507.7MW of solar PV capacity in its latest technology neutral auction, with only solar projects selected.
December 15, 2025
Soltec has begun the process of transferring 80% of its share ownership to European investment firm DVC Solutions.
December 15, 2025
Solar manufacturer Maxeon has filed a new patent infringement lawsuit against fellow PV manufacturer Aiko before the Munich Regional Court I in Germany.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Webinars
December 17, 2025
2pm GMT / 3pm CET
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK
Solar Media Events
March 24, 2026
Dallas, Texas
Solar Media Events
April 15, 2026
Milan, Italy
Solar Media Events
June 16, 2026
Napa, USA