CIGS thin-film PV manufacturer Global Solar Energy has commissioned its new production facility in Berlin-Adlershof, Germany. The company manufactures flexible copper-indium-gallium-(di)selenide cells and modules at the 35MW annual capacity site. Along with a sister factory in Tucson, AZ, the company now has 70MW of total manufacturing capability.

Following successful pilot operations earlier this month, the facility staff manufactures the flexible CIGS modules on a two-shift rotation. Plans have been made to transition to a three-shift operation at the beginning of the third quarter. So far, 60 vacancies have been filled at the plant, with another 100 positions scheduled to open by the end of 2012.

Solar cells are fabricated in house on a roll-to-roll production line in the new 2100 m2 factory. The cells are then laminated between a number of films, which ensure the durability and reliability of the final PowerFlex module product.

Module conversion efficiencies of up to 12.6% have been achieved; several of the process tools are custom-built, which the company said helps ensure that series production is optimized.

“Production started successfully. By collaborating with experienced suppliers, and as a result of the great expertise and phenomenal commitment of our team, we were able to commission and install the equipment in the new factory within just five months. I am deeply grateful to my staff for this,” said Jens Mühling, managing director of the company’s German branch.