NanoFlex Extends University Research Agreements
NanoFlex Power, a developer of photovoltaic technologies and IP, has signed an extension to its agreement with the University of Southern California (USC) and its subcontractor, the University of Michigan, to continue research and development of thin film photovoltaic cells, including both GaAs and organic photovoltaics (OPV) technologies into 2021.
Under the agreements, NanoFlex Power will provide funding for its research partners to optimise the power conversion efficiency of both GaAs and OPV cells, demonstrate low-cost production processes, and improve operating lifetimes. As with prior agreements, all IP derived from the research program will be licensed exclusively to NanoFlex Power.
Robert Fasnacht, president and CEO of NanoFlex Power, stated: "We are pleased to continue our longstanding collaborative relationships with USC and the University of Michigan. Their research efforts have resulted in over 750 issued or pending patents worldwide. With this new agreement, we ensure that they will be our primary research partners for the critical development and commercialisation phases for both our GaAs and OPV technologies."
"This long-term commitment from NanoFlex Power will accelerate our development of thin film photovoltaic materials and technologies. This extension will enable us to rapidly advance our efforts in achieving technical and performance goals for power conversion efficiency, reliability, form factor, and cost," said Mark Thompson, professor of chemistry, materials science and chemical engineering at USC.
Stephen Forrest, the Paul G. Goebel professor of engineering in the departments of electrical engineering and physics at the University of Michigan, added: "We are at a critical point in the development of OPV and GaAs technologies. Our partnership with NanoFlex will position us to achieve key steps critical for the commercialisation and market acceptance of these technologies."
