SunPower Begins A New Chapter in American Solar Manufacturing

Following up on its commitment last spring to invest in American manufacturing, SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR) today announced that it has completed its acquisition of certain assets of SolarWorld Americas, including its Hillsboro, Oregon facilities and its predominantly manufacturing workforce of more than 200 employees. SunPower has already begun to inject fresh capital into the factory as it executes plans to implement its leading-edge high efficiency P-Series solar panel manufacturing technology.

"This acquisition is an important step in helping to reshape solar manufacturing in America," said Tom Werner, SunPower CEO and chairman of the board. "With a dedicated and experienced Hillsboro workforce and our advanced P-Series solar panel manufacturing technology, invented and perfected in Silicon Valley, we'll be able to sell high-performance American-assembled panels to serve our strong U.S. market demand."

SunPower has already begun implementing its plans to move relevant equipment to Hillsboro and rapidly convert existing module capacity to manufacture 19 percent efficient P-Series technology. Product shipments are expected to begin by the first quarter of next year. During this transition, Hillsboro employees will continue to produce SolarWorld Americas product over the next several months before refocusing on manufacturing SunPower P-Series products.

SunPower, a leader in the residential and commercial markets, will sell 19 percent efficient P-Series panels as part of a comprehensive high-efficiency product portfolio that includes X- and E-Series, and, beginning in 2019, will include its newly developed next generation technology.

The purchase price for the SolarWorld Americas assets was not disclosed.

About SunPower 

As one of the world's most innovative and sustainable energy companies, SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR) provides a diverse group of customers with complete solar solutions and services. Residential customers, businesses, governments, schools and utilities around the globe rely on SunPower's more than 30 years of proven experience. From the first flip of the switch, SunPower delivers maximum value and superb performance throughout the long life of every solar system. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, SunPower has dedicated, customer-focused employees in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North and South America. For more information about how SunPower is changing the way our world is powered, visit www.sunpower.com.