U.S. Air Force awards United Solar Systems $11.5 M contract

Wednesday, 16 July 2003, 19:30 IST
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Indian American-founded United Solar Systems Corp. has been awarded an $11.5-million contract by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory.

NEW YORK: United Solar Systems will develop new solar cell technology to be used in space and airship vehicles. The new system will address defence and homeland security applications and the U.S. Air Force has an option to fund the United Solar Systems an additional $7.8 million, said a press release from the firm, founded by Subhendu Guha. "There is a growing need for lightweight, flexible and durable solar arrays on satellites and airships," said Guha, president and chief operating officer of Michigan-based United Solar Systems. "In addition to having a technology and product uniquely suited for these applications, we have a state-of-the-art 30-megawatt manufacturing facility that allows us to appropriately satisfy the demands of our customers in the terrestrial market." The contract will fund research activities to develop ultra-lightweight solar arrays as the next-generation solar power technology for air force missions using advanced materials and innovative manufacturing technology.
Source: IANS