New partnership set to revolutionise solar manufacturing in Australia

Australia’s renewable energy landscape is set for a transformation as SunDrive Solar, the nation’s leader in solar innovation, partners with Trinasolar, one of the world’s largest solar manufacturers.

The companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a majority Australian-owned joint venture aimed at developing cutting-edge solar manufacturing capabilities in the country.

“This collaboration with Trinasolar, one of the world’s largest and most respected manufacturers, is a testament to SunDrive’s position as a world leader in solar innovation,” said SunDrive CEO Natalie Malligan.

“This collaboration demonstrates SunDrive and Trinasolar’s mutual belief that Australia’s engine of solar innovation can drive a global solar manufacturing powerhouse, producing the future of clean energy from right here at home.”

The joint venture is expected to strengthen Australia’s energy security and support the country’s ambitious renewable energy goals, positioning it as a global leader in solar technology.

“Collaborating with Trinasolar was an easy decision for us,” said David Hu, SunDrive co-founder and VP of Partnerships.

The MoU outlines several priorities for the collaboration:

• Creating High-Quality Jobs: The new facility is set to create over 300 skilled jobs, ensuring Australia attracts and retains top talent and drives innovation in its renewable energy sector.
• Strengthening Australia’s Energy Security: By building a robust and diverse local supply chain for solar products, the JV aims to create a more resilient and sustainable domestic energy system.
• Growing the Australian Solar Market: The partnership seeks to increase the market share of Australian-made solar modules, leveraging innovative technology to compete locally and regionally.
• Deploying Advanced Technology: The collaboration will help Australia maintain its leading edge in solar technology by integrating Australian solutions throughout the solar value chain, including the introduction of SunDrive’s world-record-breaking copper metallisation technology.

“Together, we’re combining home-grown innovation with experience to scale Australian-made solar panels that will drive the future of Australia’s clean energy transition,” stated Vince Allen, SunDrive co-founder and CTO.

As part of the initiative, SunDrive will apply for funding under ARENA’s Solar Sunshot program, which is essential for advancing the JV’s solar module production and conducting feasibility studies to extend the solar manufacturing value chain at the AGL Hunter Energy Hub site.

The production capacity and timeline will depend on the outcome of this program.

Edison Zhou, the Head of Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands at Trinasolar Asia Pacific, expressed excitement about the partnership.

“Australia’s innovation in solar is renowned. Trinasolar has a long history in the Australian market, and we’re excited to collaborate with SunDrive to bring world-class solar manufacturing to the region.”