REC Group and Sonnenstromfabrik to expand their cooperation
The planned cooperation will concentrate on setting up a production of high-performance modules at the Sonnenstromfabrik site in Wismar, Germany by using REC's patented split cell and junction box technology, as well as on further joint projects in European markets. Sonnenstromfabrik has focused on the premium segments of the photovoltaic industry with a specialized product portfolio. In line with this, the partnership is intended to accelerate efficiency improvements in Sonnenstromfabrik's photovoltaic modules. By using REC’s split cell and junction box technology, higher yields are achieved even under partially shaded conditions. Through the cooperation with REC, Sonnenstromfabrik gains a major advantage in optimizing half-cut cell technology for PERC modules.
Under the memorandum, the parties will also avoid any disputes relating to REC’s EP 3 017 520 patent, which is directed to REC’s leapfrog and award-winning split cell and junction box technology. A mutual cooperation agreement will be finalized at a later date and the parties expect it to include a license to REC’s EP 3 017 520 patent. REC’s split cell and junction box technology has been incorporated into REC products for more than half a decade and is a key feature of REC Group’s advanced solar panels, the TwinPeak 4, N-Peak 2, Alpha and Alpha Pure Series.
The companies have already been cooperating for several years, with REC being a key contributor to Sonnenstromfabrik’s low-carbon products, supplying wafers produced in a correspondingly more sustainable manner from REC’s production site in Norway.
Dr. Bernhard Weilharter, Managing Director of Sonnenstromfabrik / CS Wismar GmbH: "Through a strategic partnership with REC, we will fast-track our pace toward uncompromising high-performance technology made by Sonnenstromfabrik. REC’s patented split cell and junction box technology has currently become unavoidable due to solar cells getting larger. Cells must be cut to reduce currents to a level that can be handled by inverters. REC's innovative technology has been widely recognized in the industry for enabling unmatched gains in performance and efficiency."
"At REC, we clearly understand that real energy transitions can only happen with bold innovations. Considering the urgency of climate change, we need to accelerate the spread of high-efficiency clean technology now. As a multiple award-winner and frontrunner for pioneering solar products, we are proud to join forces with a premium brand such as Sonnenstromfabrik and provide access to our leading technology in a manner that recognizes REC’s hard work and investments and respects fair competition. This will further empower consumers, offering them the highest possible performance and the most benefits," emphasizes Jan Enno Bicker, CEO at REC Group.
For media inquiries please contact:
REC Group:
Agnieszka Schulze
Head of Global PR, REC Group
Tel.: +49 89 4 42 38 59 39
E-mail: agnieszka.schulze@recgroup.com
REC Solar EMEA GmbH
Balanstr. 71a
81541 Munich, Germany
Managing Director: Cemil Seber
Court of Registration: Munich HRB 180306
VAT ID-No: DE266243545
Sonnenstromfabrik:
necom Werbeagentur GmbH
PR-Abteilung
Jürgen Preiss
Lindenallee 43
50968 Köln
Tel.: +49 (0)178 50 30 414
E-Mail: preiss@necom.de
About REC Group:
REC Group is an international pioneering solar energy company dedicated to empowering consumers with clean, affordable solar power through high-quality solar panels with a leading power density. As Solar’s Most Trusted, REC is known for its patented innovations and multiple award-winning products with reliable long-term performance. The cornerstone for REC’s strong reliability is advanced and highly efficient manufacturing using Industry 4.0 practices. Founded in 1996 in Norway, REC has always been committed to a low carbon footprint in its solar materials and panels. REC is headquartered in Norway with operational headquarters in Singapore and regional hubs in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
About Sonnenstromfabrik
Sonnenstromfabrik (CS Wismar GmbH) is one of Europe’s cutting-edge leaders in manufacturing high-quality photovoltaic modules. The module plant has established itself as a forerunner in quality products. Today, Sonnenstromfabrik offers the largest range of glass/glass modules in the industry, which it produces both under its own branding as well as on commission for other solar industry manufacturers. Its production facility in the northern German city of Wismar is already about 25 years old. The company’s glass/foil modules are no exception to the company’s high standards for quality, design and performance. Customised, off-grid and roof-integrated modules round out Sonnenstromfabrik’s product range. Sonnenstromfabrik was the first in the industry to completely redefine sustainability, at the same time developing certified low-carbon production processes. Sonnenstromfabrik’s products win customers over with their substantially longer lifespans and greater efficiency compared to conventional solar modules.
