Slovakia's Agora Solar a.s. plans to build a 150 MW solar module factory in Frano in the east of the country. The company said it had found a suitable building in an industrial park in the region that could eventually reach 500 megawatts of capacity by 2024. Production activities are expected to start in the second quarter with a production line of 50MW.
Manufacturers mainly want to serve niche markets. "The range of solar cell and module sizes has increased substantially in recent years, with the disadvantage that certain performance classes are often only available for a limited time," the company said in a press release. However, other solar modules, especially the size Larger solar modules, which cannot be used in certain photovoltaic systems."
Agora Solar has deliberately selected a production line that can be converted to other forms at short notice, noting that it also plans to manufacture translucent glass modules for building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. These products should have up to 50% clarity and are also suitable for agricultural applications. Almost all solar modules should be in a bifacial configuration, and the company is prepared to offer a 30-year performance guarantee.
In addition to Slovakia, Agora Solar hopes to sell its products in the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Due to its proximity to Ukraine, parts of the factory's halls remain empty and are currently being used for sorting and distribution of clothing and donations for refugees. "With the start of production, some appropriately qualified refugees will be trained and employed within a few months," the company said.