First Solar Recognizes NSG Vietnam Glass Industries with Supplier Award

First Solar (Nasdaq: FSLR) has recognized NSG Group company Vietnam Glass Industries (VGI) with the solar module manufacturer’s 2016 Outstanding Quality Award, citing the supplier’s continuous quality improvement efforts and enduring commitment to First Solar’s Supplier Quality Continuous Improvement (SQCI) process. 

VGI supplies the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) coated glass used in the manufacture of First Solar’s advanced technology thin film solar modules. VGI is First Solar’s primary source for TCO glass used at its module manufacturing facility in Kulim, Malaysia.

“Delivering a sustained pace of quality enhancements aligned with First Solar’s commitment to innovation requires our suppliers to continuously improve their processes, tools and methods,” said Azmat Sidiqi, First Solar’s Senior Technical Advisor.

“We are delighted to work with such a nimble supplier as VGI. Their participation in our SQCI process began in 2012, and the results have been significant for both companies.”

Sidiqqi said VGI has improved production output and greater material availability while building a stronger customer relationship with First Solar. “This is a well-deserved recognition,” he said.

“NSG is extremely honored to receive this quality award from First Solar,” said Hiroyuki Nakamura, General Director. “The team at the VGI plant in Vietnam has been able to develop a robust and close relationship with First Solar at KLM while working on the SQCI process.

We have been able to improve performance in many areas of our business, building on our expertise in glass.  We will continue to strive to meet the high quality standards established by First Solar to provide benefits to both of our companies.”

The NSG Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of glass and glazing systems, including the Architectural Glass division that produces the TCO glass used by First Solar. VGI – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd., the parent of NSG Group – manufactures coated glass products in My Xuan, southern Vietnam.

About First Solar, Inc.

First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced module and system technology. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. For more information about First Solar, please visitwww.firstsolar.com.