Working with a developing technology can often put blinders on a company and its researchers. The next product and quarter’s results are usually the focus. But if a company can keep the blinders off for a few moments, it may realize that there are many ways to look at running and funding itself. The company that has a wide vision in a new technology is likely the one that will profit in the end.
Solar Enertech Corp., a solar photovoltaic panel manufacturer and research company, works to research, develop and manufacture solar panels from its Shanghai, China base of operations. Additionally, the company has a unique relationship with Shanghai University to develop leading-edge solar technology through 2016.
Apparently, the company has structured itself to take advantage of solar development and sales opportunities on both sides of the Pacific. It has opened a Menlo Park office to keep pace with sales and technical programs in the US, while also using research facilities in China at a nice discount. As China is quickly becoming a solar power hub, the company does appear to have a solid foot in the door as solar – in general -works to bring kilowatt costs down and manufacturing capacity up.
To keep the company on track with the latest developments in solar power, it has arranged a deal with the Chinese government to make minimal investment payments while the government provides skilled workers, a 42,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility and a market hungry for alternative power. Apparently the arrangement is working, as the company plans a production expansion of its panels from 25Kw to 50. There is still plenty of solar power jockeying going on for the different parts of the market. Solar Enertech, however, is looking well-positioned for whatever the outcome may be.
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