18 February 2014

First Solar recognizes top suppliers with 2013 achievement awards

First Solar Inc of Tempe, AZ, USA, which manufactures thin-film photovoltaic modules based on cadmium telluride (CdTe) as well as providing engineering, procurement & construction (EPC) services, has announced the recipients of its 2013 NOVA award for outstanding performance by suppliers.

The awardees – SMA Solar Technology AG, OMCO Solar, Airgas USA LLC and Air Liquide Malaysia Sdn. Bhd – have been recognized for providing “enduring value to First Solar’s manufacturing and EPC project activities”.

• SMA Solar Technology AG of Niestetal, Germany was recognized for its continued partnership on key strategic initiatives, including third-party sales support, around the world, while maintaining quality and controlling costs.

• OMCO Solar of Phoenix, AZ, USA was recognized for demonstrating considerable manufacturing flexibility that accommodated First Solar's dynamic EPC project schedules in North America.

• Airgas USA LLC of Radnor, PA, USA was recognized for ensuring continued, uninterrupted supply of manufacturing materials to First Solar’s production facility in Perrysburg, OH, as well as personal protection equipment and safety equipment, while remaining open to creative approaches to managing inventory and reducing costs.

• Air Liquide Malaysia Sdn Bhd (ALM) was recognized for delivering an expanded nitrogen generation system in support of new manufacturing processes at First Solar’s production facility in Kulim, Malaysia, and for supporting the firm’s requirements at competitive rates.

“Our suppliers play a critical role in fulfilling our mission to create enduring value by enabling a world powered by clean, affordable solar electricity,” said Shellie Molina, First Solar’s VP, Global Supply Chain. “We appreciate the exceptional efforts of these NOVA award recipients and the value they provide through the highest standards of quality, cost and performance in both the manufacturing and EPC environments.”

First Solar estimates that its business operations support about 33,000 supply chain jobs on a global basis. The firm established the NOVA Award in 2011 to honor suppliers that significantly support its mission.

See related items:

First Solar presents awards for outstanding supplier performance

First Solar recognizes top suppliers with achievement awards

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