Japanese plastics manufacturer Sekisui Chemical is investing in a 100 MW production line to make lightweight perovskite solar panels for low-support roofs, with an operational start in 2027. It will also acquire a production facility from Japanese electronics manufacturer Sharp.
Sekisui Chemical said it will invest JPY 90 billion ($570.64 million) in a perovskite solar panel production line with an initial capacity of 100 MW, which will be put into operation in 2027. It also plans to commercialize its flexible perovskite solar panel technology, produced at its existing factory. facilities, in 2025.
The investment includes the acquisition of a factory from Japanese electronics manufacturer Sharp in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, for JPY 25 billion. The acquisition includes buildings, power supply, cooling and facilities.
The company established Sekisui Solar Film, a venture owned 86% by Sekisui Chemical and 14% by the Development Bank of Japan, to handle the production, design and sales of perovskite solar panels.
Sekisui Solar Film will initially design, manufacture and sell lightweight, flexible perovskite solar cell products for low-bearing roofs and public buildings, such as gymnasiums used as evacuation centers during disasters. It aims to reduce costs and expand through mass production, ultimately targeting commercial and industrial roofs and facades.
The company said it would like to play a “central role” in achieving the Japanese government’s goal of reaching gigawatt supply levels by 2030, and therefore decided to make the capital investment with the aim of the 100 MW perovskite solar line to be launched in 2027. .
The company also said it was eligible to receive JPY 157.25 billion in subsidies from Japan’s Green Transformation (GX) Supply Chain Construction Support Project, initiated by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
Sekisui Chemical has developed a roll-to-roll process for the production of perovskite solar panels and has conducted test installations with industrial partners.
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