UMC-Associated Photovoltaic Power Factory Wins China's Operation License

Taipei, March 1, 2011 (CENS)--A solar-power factory in mainland China, partly held by United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC), recently won an operation license from the Chinese government, making it the first factory of this kind in the mainland to win operation permission.

The factory, constructed in Shandong Province at an initial capital of RMB1 billion (US$149 million at US$1:RMB6.7), is designed to have total loading capacity of 30 terawatts, with the initial 18 terawatts already installed.

UMC holds a 30% stake in the venture through a venture capital firm it wholly owns while Jining City Government of the province holds the remaining portion.

The factory is recognized as the biggest solar-cell factory in Asia using thin-film photovoltaic technology.

UMC has expanded into green energy sectors, including LED (light emitting diode) and photovoltaic from silicon foundry, to seek higher profit. The company said the factory is its first of this kind in the mainland and it is waiting for Taiwan government's approval on the investment.