Dr Alzarooni and Lin at the signing.
New PV panels manufacturing facility to open in Dubai
DUBAI, October 15, 2014
Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), the regulatory body for the Dubai Silicon Oasis, has signed a deal with photovoltaic anti-reflective coated glass producer Chang Whou Almaden to host a new manufacturing and training facility at its integrated free zone technology park.
The 15,000-sq-m factory will be set up at a total capital cost of Dh110 million ($29.9 million) and will produce up to 400,000 PV panels every year, said a statement.
The facility is set for completion in the first quarter of next year, it said.
The facility will also host a training centre that will target raising awareness on green energy and sustainable solutions for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
Dr Mohammed Alzarooni, vice chairman and CEO of DSOA, said: “We welcome Chang Zhou Almaden to the hi-tech park and look forward to a symbiotic partnership with the world’s largest producer of anti-reflective glass.
“The Middle East is rapidly gaining international attention as an emerging market for solar energy. This has led to high uptake for innovative technologies. Dubai offers an international platform with comprehensive regional reach, providing Almaden the perfect location to establish its regional manufacturing facility.”
At the DSO plant, Almaden will produce specialised super thin dual glass PV panels to suit the desert climate, especially for residential buildings, car parking areas, green houses, roof tops and solar farms.
Jinxi Lin, chairman of Chang Zhou Almaden, said: “Solar is definitely the energy source for the future and although there are huge challenges facing the industry, we believe Almaden will create an impact on the market with our improved eco-friendly technology, competitive pricing and quality standards.
“Our ultra-thin dual glass PV panel has been especially designed for the hot summers of the Middle East allowing minimal power loss in high humidity and high temperature environments. We are glad to make our entry into this region with our facility at Dubai Silicon Oasis.” - TradeArabia News Service
