Researchers at Dow Corning and The University of Toledo (UT) have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding collaborative discussions on photovoltaic (PV) solar research a…
Researchers at Dow Corning and The University of Toledo (UT) have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding collaborative discussions on photovoltaic (PV) solar research and development efforts concerning the reduction in cost of solar energy to make it a viable and economically competitive energy option at global level. Both Dow Corning and UT want homes and businesses throughout the world to take advantage of clean, renewable energy from the sun, said Gregg Zank, senior vice president and chief technology officer of Dow Corning. It is essential that businesses, academics and the government collaborate in order to accelerate the advancement of solar technologies. “UT“s capabilities for industrial collaboration have been greatly strengthened over the last three years through the founding of the Wright Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization – PVIC in 2007, said Prof. Robert Collins, the Center“s Principal Investigator, a Distinguished University Professor and the NEG Endowed Chair in Silicate and Materials. “PVIC affiliated faculty are committed to a collaboration with Dow Corning in which UT“s expertise in photovoltaic thin film and nanomaterials research and solar cell development complements Dow Corning“s global leadership in materials for PV manufacturing and installation. PVIC faculty are also deeply committed to our shared goals of lowering the cost and increasing the performance of the next generations of photovoltaics products.” The collaboration between Dow Corning and UT, which could also include other universities or businesses in the future, offers researchers from the organizations to share data and technology while allowing both to protect their intellectual property. The UT, which is a leadership node of the Wright Center for Photovoltaics Innovation and Commercialization, has a long history of scientific research and industrial collaboration in thin-film photovoltaics. UT faculty members have been actively involved in research and development of PV materials, devices, and manufacturing for more than 25 years. UT was established by the state of Ohio to further the research and applications of clean electricity generation. Dow Corning“s silicon-based materials are used in solar cell manufacturing, solar module assembly and installation. The company currently has two Solar Solutions Application Centers in the US, as well as other facilities under construction in Europe and Korea. Both Dow Corning and UT are active in engaging US policymakers to support alternative energy growth in the US.