SBD to build thin film solar cell facility

FORT LAUDERDALE, USA: The Management of SBD International Inc. has announced it is planning to build a thin film solar panel plant in Florida to serve the Caribbean and South American markets.

CEO C. Michael Nurse stated: "We have signed a Letter Of Intent with TGI/Solar Power Gr to be a licensee of their thin film solar panel product and to have TGI Solar 18 be the supplier for an 18 MW capacity plant in Florida. This will enable us to be vertically integrated as a manufacturer and installer of solar panels and related products.”

The plant, when completed in about 18 months, will employ over 200 skilled workers and will be located in Palm Beach County. It is expected that the plant will be partially funded by a bond issue. Bond Counsel or Bond Underwriters have not yet been selected.

Solar 18 thin film panels function in low light conditions, and can generate more energy than other technologies about 10-15 percent at the same capacity. The panels are encapsulated with EVA and have 100 percent protection from moisture.

Many States offer tax incentives or refunds for use of solar panels on residences or business. Florida offers up to $20,000 per residential use and up to 100,000 for commercial use.

SBD has identified a number of markets in the Caribbean and South America and the Caribbean, which can support small solar facilities up to 5 MW or WTE facilities, and in the next few months management will be meeting with the local power authorities to discuss purchasing agreements for the power generating facilities.