SunDrive turn solar cells into modules, embraces local aluminium

Innovative solar cell manufacturer SunDrive has announced a major milestone, with the company hitting a copper plating production yield of >99 percent at its commercial pilot production facility in Kurnell, Sydney, with those cells being turned into modules.

At the same time SunDrive and aluminium manufacturer Capral entered into a MoU to develop a supply partnership focused on incorporating Capral’s low emissions aluminium extrusions in its products.

The company took to social media and said: “What started as a lab concept has now reached production yields exceeding 99 percent – a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication.

In 2023 SunDrive was awarded $11 million by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) for the Commercialisation of SunDrive Copper Metallisation project under the Advancing Renewables Program.

SunDrive said: “It was great to have the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) on site (pictured) to witness this exciting step forward in our advanced manufacturing journey.

“From a lab in the garage to where we are today, ARENA has supported our vision to unlock solar’s full potential.”

SunDrive’s panels replace expensive metals in their structure with copper, offering the potential of slashing manufacturing costs.

Meanwhile SunDrive and Capral intend to create a domestic supply chain sourcing Capral’s LocAL low-carbon aluminium.

CEO of SunDrive Natalie Malligan said: “Our commitment to exploring and fostering a strong, local supply chain is at the core of our vision for the future of solar manufacturing in Australia.

“The opportunity to source local and low-carbon aluminium through Capral has the potential to not only support Australian jobs and businesses but create a unique, Australian product that supports Australian jobs and enhance the resilience and sustainability of our production process.”

Capral has successfully trialled the use of this recycled material in its extrusion plants.

The partnership is contingent on SunDrive Solar securing support under ARENA’s Solar Sunshot programme.

Picture: SunDrive