Schott Plans Additional Facility in Germany

Schott Solar Inc. of Rocklin, Calif., will build a €60 million facility in Jena, Germany, for producing thin-film solar electricity modules based on amorphous silicon. The manufacturing method, in which silicon is vapor-deposited on glass, requires less silicon than crystalline silicon technology.

Amorphous silicon thin-film units are integrated into glazing applications for windows, roofs and facades for architectural interest and sustainable energy generation. The facility is set to open in the fall of 2007.