Honda Motor Co. announced plans on Monday to open a facility capable of mass producing solar cells in 2007. Citing increased demand for alternative energy, the factory is projected to pull in revenues of US $40-70 million. The energy generated from solar cells built in this plant will total 27.5 megawatts annually, capable of powering 8,000 homes. Made from non-silicon compounds, Honda contends this will result in half as much energy consumed and generate half of the carbon dioxide waste than prevailing methods during manufacturing. Honda enters an increasingly crowded field of solar cell producers including Mitsubishi, Sharp, and Kyocera. (solar department links)

Press Release (Honda)

The Philoneist Says: Honda is prudently positioning itself in the market for hybrid solar cars when they eventually become viable. Panasonic World Solar Car Challenge