The project is due to be implemented over three phases with a start-up capacity of 35 MW, increased to 75 MW in phase 2 and 135 MW by 2015. The company says it will start manufacturing in Q3 2013.
The manufacturing facility, which will be based in Oldbury near Birminghamm, is set to create around 100 new jobs in manufacturing, research and development, support, sales and marketing, administration and logistics.
The production line, which will use equipment from Meyer Burger, will be producing standard 60 and 72 cell modules and solar roof tiles.
Climate change minister Gregory Barker said: “This new manufacturing facility will be a real boost for the West Midlands. It will bring much-needed jobs and investment to the region.
“It is also a real vote of confidence in the UK’s solar industry. It highlights the UK’s position as a top destination for global investment in this exciting technology.”
Reza Shaybani, BPVA chairman, added: “We were delighted to see that the contract for such an exciting project has now been signed. The signing allows us to have this facility up and running in the UK. I am especially delighted that both Sun Solar Energy and Meyer Burger who are two of our most active members, are creating this solar module manufacturing facility in the UK.
“Now that the government is supporting the industry extremely well, it is time for the industry to also play its part. The BPVA is committed to the growth of the industry which will be achieved in not only deployment of solar PV but also in research and development, innovation, manufacturing, engineering and export opportunities.”
Inderjit Sohal, ceo of Sun Solar Energy, said: “We are delighted that today we can celebrate the birth of our new factory in the West Midlands. We aim to manufacture high quality, affordable and innovative solar modules which are most importantly, British made! As the UK has always been highly regarded for its manufacturing past I want to bring back manufacturing to the UK which will help grow the local and national economy, in turn creating more jobs. I want to thank the BPVA and especially Reza Shaybani for his personal attention and commitment to this project. BPVA and I share the passion for making the UK solar PV industry even more successful in the future.”