NCPRE hosted Dr. Dirk Weiss, Head of Technology Assessment, and Dr. Sachit Grover, Device Manager, from First Solar Inc., USA. The primary objective of their visit was to explore potential collaborative projects between NCPRE and First Solar. During the two-day visit, there were in-depth discussions about First Solar's ongoing production, R&D projects, and their future roadmap. The focus was on identifying areas where NCPRE's expertise could contribute significantly to First Solar's goals. Both fabrication and characterization facilities at NCPRE were showcased to the visiting experts.

The First Solar visitors and NCPRE researchers (which included Prof. Dinesh Kabra and Prof. Anil Kottantharayil) discussed the development of emerging solar cell technologies. The visit culminated in the identification of strategic areas for collaboration, with medium-term goals and immediate priorities in the realm of characterization. The synergy between NCPRE and First Solar holds promise for advancing innovative solar PV technologies, leveraging the strengths and capabilities of both. The visit marks the beginning of what is poised to be a fruitful partnership in the pursuit of sustainable PV solutions.