Post #3

May 18th

First Solar told me to do a bit of a general overview of the company and what they do before I get my hands dirty. I compiled a lot of research, but here are some of the main details I found today. The company was founded in 1990 but went by a different name back then. It was called Solar Cells Inc. In 1999 it was bought and rebranded, and from then on called First Solar Inc. In 2006 the company was finally listed on the stock market. They have a gigantic distribution network. They have over 39 distributors and wholesalers spanning across 12 different countries. First Solar is one of the fastest growing companies in the technology sector and primarily work in the construction of PV power plants and solar panels. The company's headquarters are located in Tempe Arizona (right outside of Phoenix). They also have manufacturing facilities in Perrysburg, Ohio and Kulim, Malaysia. Just last month, they decided to add to the already existing facility in Perrysburg. The additional factory is 1.2 gigawatts and is expected to provide 500 more jobs. It's crazy that this is all happening just 12 minutes away from where I live. First Solar is one of five modules in the entire world to pass "Atlas 25+", one of the industries most selective efficiency tests for solar energy. First Solar prides itself on creating panels using less energy and materials than other companies, not only providing for an eco-friendly experience by product users but also being friendly to the environment themselves. First Solar also prides itself on providing costs that are comparable to many fossil fuel costs. They have sold a whopping 17 gigawatts of material worldwide, and are only continuing to grow. The rest of my research before I start will consist of me trying to understand how the technology works a little better. I am very excited to get to Arizona and truly start my study.