SunWorks Inc (SUNWQ)

[black_slk320]

Solar3D went into the installation business because their 3d cell would be too expensive to manufacture (more steps) than the processes currently used. More steps would add to the cost/watt. They'd also need to convince a semiconductor equipment manufacturer to build the equipment needed to perform these additional steps. Unless Solar3D builds the equipment themselves (very expensive) and sets up their own solar module manufacturing plant to use the new equipment (also very expensive), there will never be a 3D cell. The extra cost will result in higher prices that can't be justified by the 40% (unproven) higher efficiency.

The Chinese module makers have gone into the installation business because that's where the money is. Solar3D should stick with installations and forget about the 3D cell. This is probably their plan, but can't announce it until they are turned down by all the potential manufacturing partners. They need to say they tried to find a partner, but couldn't and they don't have the money to go it alone.