Trina testing new multicrystalline modules

Changzhou, China-based Trina Solar (NYSE: TSL) said late last week that it has started test production of multicrystalline solar modules that can produce 180 watts to 220 watts of electricity.

Trina, which makes solar photovoltaic products, said on Friday that the modules each contain 60 156-millimeter square cells.

Shares of Trina rose $2.25, or 4.8 percent, to $49.07 in afternoon trading.

"We can provide our customers with a wider selection of solutions by adapting our product range to meet market demands," said Arturo Herrero, VP of Sales and Marketing at Trina Solar.

The company said the multicrystalline modules, which are being produced from its own ingots, wafers, and cells, can provide higher power, increased exposure to sunlight and improved stability.

The cost of the new solar modules was not disclosed.

The company, which announced several European contracts in July, said it expects the new module to help it expand in strategic markets such as Spain, Germany and Italy (see First Solar and Trina Solar shine on new orders).

At the time, Trina said the solar photovoltaic modules supplied under the contracts would have an aggregate output of up to 99 megawatts over the next two or three years.

Trina said initial shipments had already been made on each of the contracts.

Founded in 1997, Trina Solar had a U.S. initial public offering in December 2006. Its American Depositary Receipts are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TSL.

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