Crystalline-silicon module manufacturer, GlobalWatt had chosen KUKA Systems, advanced liquid encapsulant line for its new plant in Saginaw, Michigan. The initial semi-automated line is expected to cost under $10M and be operational by November 2010 with production to begin in the first quarter of 2011. GlobalWatt has a plan of a total capacity over the next three to five years of 500MW in module manufacturing.
“We have evaluated a series of equipment suppliers for months and have com-mitted to KUKA Systems to form a partnership which we believe will meet our needs over the next five years,” commented Moji Zahedi, Vice President of Operations for GlobalWatt. “They have significant experience in advanced encapsulant technology, and being local ensures the timely support for our manufacturing needs.”
Robert Giaier, Vice President for KUKA Systems North America said, “We are pleased to partner with GlobalWatt to meet the industry’s need for modules with enhanced efficiency, increased reliability and longer lifespan. These advanced modules are critical for specialty market segments.”
GlobalWatt had previously told PV-Tech that it was partnering with Dow Corning for their encapsulation material.
