Intel to transfer world-leading manufacturing expertise to accelerate MiaSole ramp to 150MW

SANTA CLARA, USA: MiaSole, the leading manufacturer of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, announced that it has entered into an agreement with Intel's Technical Manufacturing Services practice.

Under this agreement, Intel will provide customized manufacturing services and systems, strategic consulting, operational knowledge and training to MiaSole as the company ramps its manufacturing facilities in 2011 and 2012.

"The engagement is part of Intel's broader strategy to partner promising high tech innovation with Intel's world class manufacturing and Copy Exactly! methodology. This will enable companies like MiaSole to scale to high volume manufacturing cheaper, faster, and better," commented Brian Krzanich, senior VP and GM of Intel's Manufacturing and Supply Chain.

Manufacturing is central to MiaSole's business; the company has increased its annualized production capacity to over 50 Megawatts (MW) in just over a year, and is on-track to triple capacity to over 150 MW by the end of 2011. However, the agreement with Intel – a world-leader in manufacturing with over 40 years of experience – will accelerate the production ramp with improved repeatability and consistency required for high-volume manufacturing. This will further reduce the overall cost of solar energy and broaden its worldwide adoption.

"We are thrilled to learn from Intel's manufacturing expertise. The best technology manufacturer on the planet is now teaching us what it means to be world-class. This contribution will strengthen our goals to achieve manufacturing scale at our California factory this year," said Dr. Joseph Laia, CEO of MiaSole.