oerlikon

Oerlikon Solar established itself in 2006 with an innovative advantage of around 12 months as the world’s only supplier of turn-key production facilities for the mass production of large-surface thin-film solar modules made from amorphous silicon. Within a short period of time, Oerlikon Solar achieved a leading position in this future market and is best-placed in the most important sales territories of Europe, the USA and Asia. With a high level of orders and high double-digit profit margins, this new business unit has far exceeded the expectations placed on it.

Oerlikon’s production technology is the industry leader owing to its efficiency and wide range of application options for largesurface modules.

The acquisition of the UK-based laser specialist Exitech Ltd. and targeted technology cooperation has enabled Oerlikon to integrate important process stages and we can now offer the whole value-added chain – from untreated glass sheets to fully functioning solar modules – in one step.

Milestones in 2006

• With a new TCO (Transparent Conductive Oxide) system, Oerlikon Solar for the first time covers the whole production process from untreated glass sheets through to finished solar modules and further increases efficiency.
  
  
• Oerlikon Solar receives large orders totalling CHF 120 million from the leading European solar suppliers, SCHOTT Solar and ErSol Thin Film. The first fully integrated Kai 1200 PECVD coating systems are delivered at the end of December – two weeks before the agreed delivery date.
  
  
• Oerlikon develops the next generation of thin-film solar cells to production level: the tandem cell made of amorphous and crystalline silicon (ìc-Si) which has an efficiency of 10 percent. Market entrance is targeted for the second half of 2007.
  
  
• The staff of Oerlikon Solar increases from 32 (at the end of 2005) to 103 (at the end of 2006).
  
  

Outlook

In the 2007 business year, Oerlikon Solar is expecting to increase its order volume to a capacity of over 300 megawatts. The further development of Oerlikon Solar’s thin-film technology will reduce the cost of electricity generation from solar energy significantly in the coming year. The introduction of the next generation of products will further enhance Oerlikon’s market position for thin-film solar modules.

Oerlikon sets clear benchmarks in the solar industry

SCHOTT Solar
As one of the world’s leading companies, SCHOTT Solar provides forward-looking solutions in photovoltaics and solar thermal energy. Alexander Berg, Managing Director of SCHOTT Solar GmbH, says, «We do not compromise on our quality requirements. Oerlikon sets clear benchmarks within the solar industry – we are pleased to continue our successful partnership with them.»