Odersun opens first factory for designing solar modules

BERLIN, GERMANY: Innovation goes into production as Odersun inaugurates its second solar factory 'SunTwo'.

At the opening ceremony, Economics Minister of the State of Brandenburg Ralf Christoffers received a new type of solar module as an example for the possibilities of individual solar design. The company had already started ramping-up the production at its SunTwo facility in Fürstenwalde (Spree), Germany, when it achieved the IEC 61646 certification in January this year. Based on Odersun’s proprietary CISCuT-technology both standard as well as customized thin-film solar modules are produced in volume at the facility.

“The new factory in Fürstenwalde is another highlight in Brandenburg’s solar landscape. The Odersun factory is well positioned in the German Capital region. Forty percent of all solar modules produced in Germany today come from Berlin-Brandenburg. The region is well recognised in the solar industry and so it should stay,” states Minister President of Brandenburg Matthias Platzeck.

By now, 111 employees of Odersun AG work in four shifts in the fully integrated manufacturing of thin-film solar cells and modules in Fürstenwalde (Spree). At the end of this year the workforce will have increased up to 150 people. Initially the factory has a capacity of about 20 MW, which can be expanded to 30 MW by installing two additional production lines in the factory.

"The Energy Strategy 2020 of the State of Brandenburg defines the increase of the overall share of renewable energies in primary energy consumption to 20 percent until the year 2020. In view of the climate change and energy policy perspectives this target is mandatory,” says Economics Minister of Brandenburg Ralf Christoffers. “With a share of currently 16 percent, this target is already in sight. Odersun contributes to the State of Brandenburg which is amongst the top with respect to the use and production of renewable energies.”

Odersun has invested close to 50 million Euros for concept, planning, construction and equipment of the solar factory “SunTwo”. The facilities are situated on former army grounds, which now found a new use. On occasion of the ceremony Odersun donated modules for a solar installation on a sport gym in Fürstenwalde.

“Odersun is well positioned to serve the growing demand for customer specific solar products in the market,” said Odersun CEO Dr. Hein van der Zeeuw. “Today’s opening is another significant milestone for our company.”