N.J. startup partners with largest solar manufacturer in Italy

Natcore Technology, a solar startup in Red Bank, plans to announce today it is forming a partnership with the largest solar manufacturer in Italy.

Under a joint venture with MX Holding, the two firms will explore how to make efficient cells in a cost-effective manner, said Natcore CEO Chuck Provini. Researchers will also look into a new process to make super-thin silicon wafers to reduce costs by more than 80 percent, he said.

Research and development will take place at two plants near Milan and one in Somerset. The deal is expected to create up to 15 jobs in New Jersey in the coming weeks, and up to 50 more over the next few months.

The two parties met in May through a solar energy forum organized by state Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, Provini said. At the time, Natcore was preparing to launch a process to make anti-reflective coatings for solar panels at room temperature rather than at high temperatures, thus reducing waste…

Read More: N.J. startup partners with largest solar manufacturer in Italy via NJ.com