US-based module manufacturer, Suniva is planning to ramp its module production to a 24/7 operation. In 2011, the company had a between 20-30MW of annual nameplate module capacity. The company had already been running its solar cell lines 24/7.
Although still a small player in the PV market, Suniva would seem to be benefiting from its focus on the US market, especially since import duties were imposed on Chinese made solar cells last year.
The company also said that it ‘OPTimus’ module series had gained UL 1703 1000 volt listing, a key requirement for commercial and utility-scale PV projects. The modules come in two forms; a 60 cell module with power output up to 270W and a 72 cell module with power output up to 315W.
“Suniva's high-efficiency modules already contain over 80 percent U.S. content, including the use of our U.S.-produced cells,” said Greg Mihalik, Vice-President of manufacturing and operations for Suniva. “This expansion is a direct response to increased demand from our customers and distributors who require high quality ‘Buy American’ compliant products. We are also considering acquiring additional module capacity at other potential US locations in an innovative and cost-effective manner while maintaining our strict quality control.”
