Tesla and Panasonic to Collaborate on Photovoltaic Cell and Module Production in Buffalo

Tesla Motors has unveiled plans to partner with Panasonic for production of solar cells and modules at its factory in Buffalo, New York, US.

The firms will collaborate on the manufacturing and production of photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules stating in 2017.

The non-binding letter of intent is subject to shareholders’ approval of Tesla’s acquisition of SolarCity.

Tesla said it will use the cells and modules in a solar energy system that complies with its energy storage products Powerwall and Powerpack.

The company will then leverage SolarCity’s installation, sales and financing capabilities to market the solar-plus-storage solutions to residential, commercial, and grid-scale customers.

Tesla CTO and co-founder JB Straubel said: “We are excited to expand our partnership with Panasonic as we move towards a combined Tesla and SolarCity.

“By working together on solar, we will be able to accelerate production of high-efficiency, extremely reliable solar cells and modules at the best cost.”

Panasonic will be responsible for the production of the PV cell and module while Tesla will provide long-term purchase commitments for these cells.

Panasonic Eco Solutions Company vice-president Shuuji Okayama said: “Panasonic PV cells and modules boast industry-leading power generation performance, and achieve high quality and reliability.”

In 2014, SolarCity commenced the construction of 1GW-plus PV panel manufacturing facility in Buffalo, reported SeeNews Renewables.