Hanwha Solar has opened a state-of-the-art PV research and development (R and D) laboratory in Santa Clara, Calif. The facility will explore a variety of next-generation PV concepts for efficient, low-cost conversion of solar energy into electricity.

"Hanwha Solar located this facility in Silicon Valley to tap into the region's culture of innovation and technical expertise," said Hee Cheul Kim, president of Hanwha Solar.

"It is critical for a global company like Hanwha Solar to have a strong presence in California, because it is the epicenter of clean technology R and D. The investment being made in solar is a reflection of the confidence the Hanwha Group has in clean energy as a long term growth engine."

Hanwha Solar invested $14 million in the 30,000 square foot facility, which was built with room for expansion in mind. The company will employ 30 people at the R and D center, in addition to the 47 people it employs across the U.S.

Altogether, Hanwha Solar has invested $50 million in the U.S. over the previous two years, broadening its local presence and gain access to advanced solar technology through strategic partnerships with businesses like OneRoof Energy, Crystal Solar, Solar Monkey and 1366 Technologies. Hanwha Solar will continue to increase the company's footprint in the region over the coming years, making additional investments and increasing employment.

"A relentless commitment to new and better technology is key to Hanwha Solar's competitiveness," said chief technology officer Chris Eberspacher, who is based in the Santa Clara facility.

"In solar technology, you can never rest on your laurels. Yesterday's innovation can easily fade into obsolescence tomorrow. This center will keep Hanwha Solar on the next horizon of solar technology."

Hanwha Solar has a total of three state-of-the-art R and D centers in Korea, China and the United States, focused on varying stages of solar innovation:

+ Korea - Solar R and D Center: Next generation C-Si technologies

+ China - Engineering Technology Center: Continuous cost efficiencies and competitive performance

+ United States - Advanced R and D Laboratory: Advanced technologies to transform markets

Additionally, Hanwha Solar is launching a national marketing campaign to raise brand awareness in the U.S.

These actions are part of a concerted effort by Hanwha Solar to strengthen its position in North America and build the company into a world leading solar solutions provider.