First Solar, Inc. inaugurated state-of-the-art facility in Tamil Nadu, a first fully vertically integrated solar manufacturing plant in India. Boasting an annual capacity of 3.3 gigawatts (GW), the facility specialises in the production of First Solar’s Series seven photovoltaic (PV) solar modules. The modules, tailored for the Indian market, were developed at the company’s research and development centres in the United States.
A key technological feature of First Solar is its use of a tellurium-based semiconductor, the second most prevalent photovoltaic technology globally. The choice enables the company to reduce reliance on Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains. With an investment of approximately $700 million, including $500 million in previously announced DFC financing, the facility represents First Solar’s sixth operational factory and extends its manufacturing reach to four countries, including the United States, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Situated in an area with high baseline water stress, the facility claims the distinction of being the world’s first net-zero water withdrawal solar manufacturing plant. Designed to minimise its impact on local water resources, the facility relies exclusively on tertiary treated reverse osmosis water from the city’s sewage treatment plant, with zero wastewater discharge. Additionally, the facility houses India’s inaugural solar PV recycling plant, showcasing First Solar’s commitment to sustainable practices.
The Series seven module, crafted by the new facility, stands out as the industry’s most eco-efficient, boasting a carbon and water footprint approximately four times lower than crystalline silicon solar panels produced in China. As reported by businesswire, First Solar’s sustainable manufacturing approach is characterised by a 50% reduction in energy usage and a two-thirds decrease in water consumption compared to an equivalent polysilicon module production facility.
