Mitsubishi Electric Announces Expansion Of PV Production & Shipments

Mitsubishi Electric Corp. announced the shipment of four small-size photovoltaic (PV) modules for the overseas market, suitable for use in stand-alone solar power generation systems in areas of the world where the local electrification infrastructure is insufficient or non-existent. Shipment will begin on October 1, 2008.

Mitsubishi also announced that it plans to expand its annual production capacity to 600MW in fiscal 2012 (April 1, 2011-March 31, 2012). The company states that it will continue to promote PV systems worldwide, thus contributing not only to the prevention of global warming in developed countries, but also to the provision of PV systems to people living in non-electrified areas.

Mitsubishi Electric’s small-size modules are suitable for use in small houses in non-electrified areas. Its wide lineup of 35, 40, 46 and 52W modules meets diverse demands from various countries. The modules’ power voltages are suitable for a 12V battery, which is most widely used in stand-alone PV systems.

Most small homes in non-electrified areas use only one PV module per house. Mitsubishi states that it is the first Japanese manufacturer to assure a nominal power rating per module. The company has also developed a new junction box for stand-alone PV systems, taking into consideration the severe environments they are often used in. The lid does not separate from the box, and it can be held at a fixed angle. This structure is said to reduce installation time and enhance safety.

The company will construct a new building for PV cell production, the PV Cell Plant #2, at its Nakatsugawa Works Iida Factory in Nagano Prefecture. The company will expand annual production capacity of PV cells in response to a sharp increase in demand for solar power generation systems.

The company also states that it intends to accelerate its capital investment plan by one year, and invest a total of 50 billion yen to quadruple its annual PV production capacity from 150MW (present) to 600MW by fiscal 2012.. The company’s previous plan announced March 19, 2008 was to increase its capacity to 500 megawatts by fiscal 2013.