Sharp, Enel Green Power and ST Microelectronics today signed a joint venture agreement for the production of thin-film solar cells in Italy. The thin-film solar cell plant will start operation with an initial annual production capacity of 160MW, which is scheduled to be expanded to an annual production capacity of 480MW in the future. The thin-film solar cells produced in this plant will be marketed mainly in Europe and the Mediterranean area through the sales networks of Sharp and EGP. Thin-film solar cells are especially suitable for large scale photovoltaic power generation, especially in Mediterranean areas including Southern Europe.

As compared to silicon type solar cells, the thin-film solar cells are able to maintain their conversion efficiency even in hot climates. Through collaboration with a power company, Sharp aims to become a total solution company in the photovoltaic field, initiating the world’s first business model extending from thin-film solar cell production to IPP business.