Solar Frontier could benefit from proposed R&D consolidation

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Showa Shell has said it is considering consolidating its PV R&D activities in thin-film technology into its subsidiary, Solar Frontier, to enable a faster response to changing market dynamics.

A legacy of Showa Shell’s initial R&D activities in PV, which started in the early 1970’s, the R&D arm has remained under the structures of the parent company and not integrated into Solar Frontier, which started volume production in 2007.

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The company is considering a reorganisation that would include the transfer of all of its PV R&D assets and other unspecified assets to Solar Frontier.

The company did not provide a timeline for the potential changes. 

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