Pfäffikon SZ, November 17, 2005 − The Solar business unit of Unaxis, which the company has actively expanded in the recent past, is setting new standards in solar-cell technology. Its newly developed thin film solar cells can be produced at 30 percent less costs than traditional cells and, in contrast to conventional manufacturing processes, require only a fraction of the scarce raw material silicon. With their high energy yield and low cost of materials, these thin film solar cells have the potential to compete with traditional energy sources. That Unaxis is at the forefront with its innovative technology is also confirmed by its having been awarded the Swiss Solar Prize for 2005.
The first deposition unit for mass production of solar cells has already been installed at customer facilities, and further units are currently being produced. For the 2005 financial year, Unaxis expects that its solar activities will generate revenues in excess of CHF 20 million and is reckoning with higher growth rates as of 2006.
The flat panel display activities of Unaxis’ Display Technologies division are to be discontinued. The division will be maintained solely as a parts and service organization that focuses primarily on maintaining the previously installed equipment located mainly in the Asian region. No divestiture is contemplated in this regard.
Commenting on these developments, Thomas Limberger, CEO of Unaxis, stated: “I am convinced that we at Unaxis, with our cutting-edge innovations in solar-cell technology and highly qualified team of employees, have created an outstanding point of departure for the company to participate in the front ranks of the strongly growing photovoltaics market.“
This media release is based on information currently available to management. The forward-looking statements contained herein could be substantially impacted by risks and influences that are not foreseeable at present, so that actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, expected or projected.
