Suntech Introduces Compact 305 Watt SuperPoly Module in Europe

SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland, Sept. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, will introduce a new generation of their successful 72-cell module for commercial and utility-scale electricity generation in Europe. The SuperPoly STP305-24/Ve, with 15.7 percent efficiency, is ideally suited for large-scale commercial projects seeking a low levelized cost of energy (LCOE). In addition, the new Ve-Series modules feature a slim frame design lowering storage and shipment costs by up to 16 percent.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120913/CN73729 )

The new modules will be available throughout Europe starting in November 2012. Suntech's SuperPoly technology achieves high efficiency by utilizing an advanced ingot casting process, which combines the benefits of mono-crystalline silicon wafers (high efficiency) and poly-crystalline silicon wafers (square wafers and better temperature performance) into one product. With 72 six-inch cells, the new 1956x992x40mm module boasts one of the highest fill factors in the industry and lowers project installation costs.

An improved design reduces frame thickness from 50mm to 40mm, providing a 1.2 kg reduction in total module weight, without compromising module stability or durability. The module is certified to withstand extreme wind (3,800 Pascal) and snow (5,400 Pascal) loads. This superior frame design not only facilitates efficient module handling and installation, but allows for more modules to be installed on rooftops with tight weight constraint, highly relevant for many industrial projects.

"Considering that solar electricity is already competitive in key European markets, the SuperPoly Ve-Series modules will continue to drive commercial sector PV growth," said Vedat Guergeli, Managing Director of Suntech Europe. "Our SuperPoly Ve-Series modules offer high-efficiency combined with excellent reliability, while the new design makes it easier to transport and install. This product will save time, effort and cost, while generating more electricity for our partners and installers."

In addition, a new texturing process has changed the cell appearance of the SuperPoly Ve-Series. Whereas former SuperPoly cells showed both mono- and poly-silicon parts, the new cell's appearance is similar to standard polycrystalline cells while maintaining the SuperPoly advantages such as higher efficiency. The new product line also features Suntech's industry-leading 25-year power output warranty, with positive power tolerance, and a workmanship warranty of 10 years.

The new Suntech SuperPoly STP305-24/Ve solar module will be on display during PVSEC 2012 in Frankfurt on September 24 - 28, 2012 at the EPIA booth, hall 3.1, booth H13. 

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About Suntech

Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP) produces industry-leading solar products for residential, commercial, industrial, and utility applications. With regional headquarters in China, Switzerland, and the United States, and gigawatt-scale manufacturing worldwide, Suntech has delivered more than 25,000,000 photovoltaic panels to over a thousand customers in more than 80 countries. Suntech's pioneering R&D creates customer-centric innovations that are driving solar to grid parity against fossil fuels. Suntech's mission is to provide everyone with reliable access to nature's cleanest and most abundant energy source.

For more information about Suntech's people and products visit http://www.suntech-power.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates" and similar statements including the the frame design facilitating module handling and installation, and the ability of the module to save time, effort and cost, while generating more electricity for partners and installers. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Suntech's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 20-F. Suntech does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable law.

Media Contact

Bjoern Emde
Communications Manager Europe
Suntech Power International Ltd.
Tel: +41 52 633 12 56
Email: bjoern.emde@suntech-power.com

Wibke Sonderkamp
GlobalCom PR-Network
Phone: +49 89 360363 40
Email: wibke@gcpr.net

SOURCE Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd.