Meyer Burger tables plan for 400-MW solar module factory in US

Meyer Burger Technology AG (SWX:MBTN) on Tuesday unveiled plans to open a US factory for high-performance solar modules, targeting an initial production capacity of 400 MW.

The Switzerland-based company, which recently completed the strategic transformation of its business model from a solar machinery maker to a manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules, explained that it is currently negotiating with several US states to select the location of the new facility. It expects a decision to be taken by year-end.

The PV factory will make solar modules for residential, commercial and industrial and utility-scale applications. It is expected to kick off operations by the end of 2022. The procurement of machinery and equipment is already in progress.

The investment proposal aligns with Meyer Burger’s commitment to produce modules near end-customers, source materials regionally and lower supply chain delays. The Swiss manufacturer noted that the US market offers strong support and favourable economic policy conditions and it sees potential to expand its future production capabilities from the new site “to multiple gigawatts”.

“We are encouraged by bipartisan support for domestic manufacturing of solar infrastructure to secure true energy independence and control of our future. It is critical for the US to develop its domestic supply chain and de-risk itself from heavy dependence on Asia,” said Ardes Johnson, President of Meyer Burger Americas.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!