Voltaix has hired two industry veterans from the materials sector of the semiconductor industry to support its growth in both semiconductor and photovoltaics industries. Gregory T. Muhr has been appointed as Global Sales Manager and Jay Song, Ph.D. as Technical Marketing Director.
Accompanying the news that SunPower is increasing solar cell capacity by 150 percent this year was the mention in its first-quarter financial results that it expects to meet its goal of 30 percent gross margins by the end of 2008 on the back of lower polysilicon prices, higher cell efficiency and thinner wafers.
Of the anticipated 51,000 metric tons of global polysilicon production for 2008, THT Research expects 2,000 metric tons of that figure to be contributed by China. The expected increase on the output of 1,000 tons produced by China in 2007 has been pegged as a result of improved polysilicon production processes in the country.
Spire Corporation has received a contract from Alpex Exports Pvt. Ltd for a 15MW semi-automated crystalline cell module manufacturing line, which will be the international trading company’s first solar energy facility.
In a follow-up to LDK Solar’s announcement of its intention to raise $300 million funding, the company has announced that it has closed an offering of $400 million of 4.75% convertible senior notes, due 2013. LDK will fine a shelf registration statement for resale of the notes and LDK ordinary shares, according to the company.
Market research firm Frost & Sullivan has given Suntech Power its Solar Energy Development Company of the Year award for 2008. Suntech was awarded for its R&D focus as well as its range of energy efficient solutions and products.
Ascent Solar has signed a cooperation agreement with Giscosa Sociedad Limitada of Spain, a rubber membrane manufacturer and distributor, for the development of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing products for distribution in Europe.
ICP Solar Technologies, Inc. has appointed sales veteran Bill Kilduff as Eastern Regional Vice President of Sales. Mr. Kilduff brings over 25 years of sales, marketing and management experience to the role, and has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Renewable Energy Corporation ASA has invested $40 million for a 20 percent shareholding in Mainstream Energy Corporation (MSE), a renewable energy company headquartered in San Luis Obispo, California.
Daniel Lui has been named as new CFO for JA Solar following the announcement of Herman Zhao’s retirement from the role. The replacement will come into effect on May 10th when Mr. Zhao steps down.
