DSO to host Dh110 million PV panel factory

 (DSOA), the regulatory body for the Dubai Silicon Oasis, has signed an agreement with Chang Zhou Almaden Ltd., producers of photovoltaic anti-reflective coated glass, to host its new manufacturing and training facility at the integrated free zone technology park.
 
The 15,000 sq metre factory will be set up at a total capital cost of Dh110 million, marking Almaden’s foray into the Mena region. Designed to produce up to 400,000 PV panels every year, the manufacturing facility is set for completion in Q1 2015.
 
The facility will additionally host a training centre that will target raising awareness on green energy and sustainable solutions for the Mena region.
 
The agreement was signed by Dr. Mohammad Alzarooni, Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority, and Jinxi Lin, Chairman of Chang Zhou Almaden during Gitex Technology Week 2014.

Dr. Mohammed Alzarooni, 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, said: "We are glad to make our entry into this region with our facility at Dubai Silicon Oasis. We are confident our operations will contribute to Dubai’s green vision and contribute to reducing the emirate’s carbon footprint."