Snapshot

In August 2011, the Department of Energy offered a $197 million loan guarantee to support Solopower’s retrofit of an existing facility in Portland, OR.  When complete, the facility will manufacture thin-film solar panels for rooftop applications that are low-cost and high-efficiency.

Innovation

SoloPower’s project employs a new, proprietary manufacturing process that is not in use commercially in the U.S. (or anywhere in the world).  The low-cost, high-efficiency photovoltaic (PV) modules produce a light-weight, flexible solar panel for rooftop installations.  The attributes of these thin-film modules allow for installations in circumstances that would otherwise prohibit heavier, rigid panels. 

Development

The project will create 270 construction jobs.  Manufacturing the panels will provide 450 permanent jobs.

Impact

The SoloPower facility will produce low-cost, high-efficiency PV modules for rooftop applications that, when deployed, will provide significant greenhouse gas reductions.  SoloPower’s technology has the potential to transform the solar PV market and keep America at the forefront of solar technology development.