First Solar, Inc. has inaugurated the Jim Nolan Center for Solar Innovation in Lake Township, Ohio, marking it as the largest solar research and development facility in the Western Hemisphere. The new center, named in honor of the late James F. Nolan, a key figure in the development of First Solar's cadmium telluride (CdTe) technology, is part of a broader $500 million investment in U.S. thin film R&D.

The 1.3 million-square-foot facility features a state-of-the-art pilot manufacturing line designed for producing full-sized prototypes of thin film and tandem photovoltaic (PV) modules. This development is expected to enhance First Solar's innovation capabilities and accelerate the commercialization of advanced solar technologies.

In conjunction with the facility opening, First Solar announced a new world record for CdTe cell efficiency at 23.1%, certified by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The company aims to maintain its competitive edge in thin film PV technology amid increasing global competition.

This investment also includes plans to open a perovskite development line at the Perrysburg campus later in 2024. First Solar projects that these R&D expansions will create around 300 new jobs by 2025 and support approximately 30,060 jobs nationwide by 2026.

Founded in 1999, First Solar is a leading U.S. solar technology firm, noted for its thin film solar modules and commitment to sustainability.

Source: altenergymag.com