Showa Shell Sekiyu K.K. and its 100% subsidiary, Showa Shell Solar K.K., have decided to open a research centre to strengthen research on CIS solar powered cell technology, and to start a collaborative research on mass production technology of the solar modules with Ulvac, Inc.

CIS solar powered cell is regarded as the most promising technology among all the thin-film solar powered cells, which are predicted to expand their shares in the global solar power market. Without the use of silicon and with very little raw materials required, it can keep the manufacturing costs at a low level. A first plant in Miyazaki started commercial production in 2007 with an annual production capacity of 20 megawatts, and a second plant is currently under construction with an annual production capacity of 60 megawatts to start commercial production in 2009.

Showa Shell is seeking to enhance efficiency of the mass production plant of CIS solar powered cell by amalgamating its original and pioneering technology and Ulvac's mass production technology of vacuum components nurtured through production of semiconductor and FPD equipments. With a high manufacturing capacity attained by the collaborative research, Showa Shell seeks to enhance production cost competitiveness and to start a new plant in 2011 with an annual production capacity of 1,000 megawatts (1 gigawatt).

Outline of the collaborative research centre

Name: Atsugi Research Centre
Location: 123-1 Shimokawairi, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Jpn
Investment: 7 billion yen
Area: 25,000 square metres
Opening: March 2009

Outline of Ulvac

Name: Ulvac, Inc.
Location : Hagizono, Chigasaki, Kanagawa, Jpn (Head Office)
Representative: Hidenori Suwa, President and CEO
No. of employees: 1,698 (as of end 2007)
Business areas: Development, manufacture, sales, customer support and machinery importing/exporting activities related to vacuum equipment, peripheral devices and vacuum components for the display, Solar cell, semiconductor, electronics, electrics, metals, machinery, automotive, chemical, food and pharmaceutical industries, and for universities and research centers. Research guidance and technical consulting on all aspects of vacuum technology.