Saint-Gobain Solar expands into UK and Ireland

COVENTRY: Saint-Gobain Solar has expanded its international presence with the launch of Saint-Gobain Solar Systems UK & Ireland.

Based in Coventry, Saint-Gobain Solar Systems UK & Ireland will add to the business’ existing global network in the US, India and 13 countries across Europe.

Combining Saint-Gobain’s experience in glass manufacturing with its own expertise in the development of market-leading solar PV technologies, Saint-Gobain Solar designs, manufactures and commercialises solar solutions.

The company said it invests more than £26m a year in the development of innovative solar technologies which deliver optimum performance and superb aesthetics.

The business, part of Saint-Gobain Group, employs 700 people worldwide and operates three divisions: Saint-Gobain Solar Glass, a complex glass components manufacturer for the solar industry; Avancis which develops and manufactures thin-layer (CIS) technologies, and Saint-Gobain Solar Systems, a provider of complete solar solutions for the building envelope.

It has a six-year track record in the design and manufacture of complete PV systems for commercial and domestic use, and in the UK and Ireland will offer three PV modules – SG Solar Suneka, SG Solar Sunlap and Powermax.

All three products are MCS accredited. Customers will also be able to take advantage of ongoing project support and training, provided through Saint-Gobain’s Training and Technical Academy network.

Budhi Chilkoti, general manager for Saint-Gobain Solar, UK & Ireland, said: “Our launch is a natural progression for the business. Solar energy has an increasingly important role to play as we seek to deliver significant energy savings and reduce the levels of Co2 generated by our buildings.

"Our presence in the UK and Ireland will give people access to a range of proven on-roof and in-roof (BiPV) PV systems that are economical, reliable and highly efficient. We also offer a 12-year and 3-month product warranty on most of our PV modules which is backed by the financial stability of the Saint-Gobain Group.”