New texture creates higher efficiency and uniform appearance. New class of performance introduced.

New texture creates higher efficiency and uniform appearance.

New class of performance introduced.

Alzenau, Germany, December 06, 2007 - SCHOTT Solar's solar cells are set to become more efficient thanks to a new surface structure, called ISO Texture. With the new surface structure the photovoltaic cells can convert more of the sunlight falling on them into energy, achieving greater power density and providing a new class of performance. This new technology, developed by SCHOTT Solar in its own research centers with the aid of research institutes and German industry, has been integrated by SCHOTT Solar into its existing manufacturing process.

An additional benefit of the new technology is that it allows SCHOTT Solar to manufacture solar cells using fewer resources. Thanks to the improved surface, the amount of silicon - currently a scarce raw material - needed per Watt of energy produced in the module has been reduced. The new process makes the entire production operation more efficient.

In addition, the new surface structure improves the appearance of the modules, since the even dark blue texture gives a particularly uniform look, which will become unique to SCHOTT Solar modules.

"Introduction of the ISO Texture has meant that we have yet again been able to reliably increase the efficiency of the SCHOTT Solar module. For our customers that means high quality and even more power at an attractive price" explains Michael Harre, Management Committee Member at SCHOTT Solar, responsible for Marketing and Sales.

"The challenge was particularly how to integrate the results from our research laboratory into the existing production lines" adds Wilfried Schmidt, Research and Development Manager, Solar Cells. "The close cooperation between R & D and manufacturing, a tradition at SCHOTT Solar, meant that we were able to implement this project in a very short space of time."

Initially, the ASE-165 GTFT/MCI series of modules will be delivered with the new texture, the 'I' in the product designation standing for 'ISO Texture'. The technology will then be successively extended to all product ranges and production facilities.

SCHOTT is one of the world's leading manufacturers in the photovoltaic sector. SCHOTT maintains close proximity to its customers with production facilities and sales offices in all important markets, with around 16,800 employees generating a worldwide turnover of 2.2 billion Euros. The Company's technological and economic capabilities are closely linked to its social and economic responsibilities.