SunDrive Solar, a Sydney-based startup, has recently entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing giant Trina Solar. This collaboration aims to fast-track the development of SunDrive’s copper-based solar cell technology while establishing an integrated solar supply chain within Australia. The partnership marks a significant step toward advancing solar innovation on a global scale, while contributing to the Australian renewable energy sector.
Under the terms of the MoU, SunDrive will spearhead an application for funding through the Australian government’s Solar Sunshot program. The funding will support the establishment of a commercial-scale solar module production facility in Sydney. This facility, which could eventually employ around 300 people, is a crucial component of SunDrive’s efforts to scale its groundbreaking copper metallization technology. Unlike conventional solar panels, which use silver, SunDrive’s technology replaces this expensive material with copper, offering a more cost-effective and abundant alternative. However, the final production capacity and timeline for the facility remain contingent on the outcome of the funding application.
The collaboration with Trina Solar is distinct from SunDrive’s existing partnership with AGL Energy. SunDrive and AGL are currently exploring the possibility of setting up a PV manufacturing facility in New South Wales (NSW). Nevertheless, SunDrive asserts that its collaboration with Trina Solar will further expand the presence of Australian-made solar modules in the market. By combining cutting-edge technology with Trina Solar’s manufacturing prowess, the partnership aims to make Australian solar products more competitive both domestically and regionally.
Natalie Malligan, Chief Executive Officer of SunDrive, expressed her optimism regarding the partnership. She highlighted the complementary nature of the two companies, noting that SunDrive’s innovative technology combined with Trina’s expertise in manufacturing and n-type technology will bolster Australia’s capacity to produce high-quality solar products. “This partnership underscores SunDrive and Trina Solar’s shared belief that Australia’s engine of solar innovation has the potential to transform into a global manufacturing powerhouse. Together, we are positioning Australia as a leader in the production of the next generation of clean energy technologies,” Malligan remarked.
SunDrive’s Chief Technology Officer, Vince Allen, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration in realizing the company’s long-held vision of developing world-class solar technology in Australia. Allen noted that Trina Solar’s extensive experience in manufacturing complements SunDrive’s homegrown innovations, creating a formidable alliance capable of scaling Australian-made solar panels to meet the demands of the clean energy transition. “This partnership brings together Australian ingenuity and global manufacturing expertise, ensuring that our solar technology not only leads the industry but is also produced locally to support Australia’s renewable energy goals,” Allen said.
Energy analysts have welcomed the partnership, seeing it as a major boost to the federal government’s Solar Sunshot program and the broader Future Made in Australia strategy. Tim Buckley, a prominent energy analyst, commented on the strategic benefits of the collaboration, noting that it provides a unique opportunity for Australian solar engineers to gain hands-on experience in commercial-scale solar manufacturing. “This is a significant milestone for Australia’s advanced manufacturing sector. It highlights the potential for the country to become a leader in solar innovation while providing opportunities for upskilling the local workforce,” Buckley stated. He further emphasized that the partnership aligns with both the country’s climate objectives and its geopolitical interests, strengthening relations with China while promoting investment in Australia’s solar technology.
Trina Solar, which has delivered more than 225 gigawatts (GW) of solar modules globally, has been an active player in the Australian solar market since 2009. By joining forces with SunDrive, Trina Solar is not only enhancing its presence in Australia but also contributing to the development of a sustainable and competitive solar supply chain in the region.
As SunDrive pushes forward with its ambitious plans, the partnership with Trina Solar represents a key milestone in Australia’s journey toward clean energy leadership. The combination of local innovation and global manufacturing capabilities could set a new standard for solar technology, positioning Australia as a hub for advanced solar manufacturing and reinforcing its role in the global clean energy transition.
