Kyocera said that 1GW capacity will allow it to supply 3.5kW solar-electric systems for about 285,000 homes each year, thereby helping prevent electricity cost increase and curb acid rain, ozone depletion and rising carbon levels.
The company plans to begin production of solar modules at its Balboa Avenue facility during the first half of 2010, with an initial production target of 30MW per year.
Kyocera said that it is expecting to double its production of solar cells in the two fiscal years from 2009 to 2011. In addition to the operations coming to San Diego, the company currently has solar module manufacturing facilities in Japan, China, the Czech Republic and Mexico.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, governor of California, said: ”Today’s announcement is further proof that California’s nation-leading green policies play a vital role in our state’s economic success. Even in this recession, green jobs in California have grown, and Kyocera’s decision to locate its solar manufacturing operations in San Diego will create even more jobs at a time when they are needed most.”
Steve Hill, president of Kyocera Solar, said: ”The US is experiencing extraordinary growth in its adoption of solar electricity. Kyocera’s San Diego plant will provide high-quality, high-efficiency solar modules to serve this expanding market.
“With a 35-year commitment to providing clean energy through solar modules, Kyocera is adding capacity globally to meet worldwide demand.”
