SunDrive Solar, Australia's leader in solar innovation, has teamed up with Trina Solar, one of the world’s largest solar manufacturers, to form a majority Australian-owned joint venture. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish cutting-edge solar manufacturing capabilities in Australia. This strategic partnership aims to position Australia as a global leader in solar technology, while also contributing to the nation’s renewable energy goals and strengthening its energy security.
The collaboration is set to bring Australian-made solar panels to homes and businesses across the country, helping Australia achieve its ambition of becoming a green energy superpower. By combining SunDrive’s innovative solar technology and Trina Solar’s global manufacturing expertise, the joint venture will boost Australia’s capacity to produce high-quality, competitively-priced solar products.
The MoU outlines key priorities for the partnership, including the creation of over 300 skilled jobs, which will help attract world-leading talent and drive Australia’s renewable energy innovation engine. Additionally, the partnership will build a resilient local supply chain, enhancing energy security by reducing reliance on imported solar products.
The joint venture also aims to grow the Australian solar market by increasing the production of locally made solar modules that can compete both domestically and regionally. The introduction of SunDrive’s copper metallisation technology, which recently set a world record, is one of the many innovations that will help keep Australia at the forefront of global solar development.
As part of their plans, SunDrive will lead an application for funding through ARENA’s Solar Sunshot program, which is vital for advancing solar module production. Alongside this, SunDrive will continue to work with AGL on feasibility studies for extending the solar manufacturing value chain at the AGL Hunter Energy Hub, a win for regional NSW!