Sharp Corporation will double its annual production capacity for crystalline solar cell modules to 500 MW at Sharp Manufacturing Company of U.K. (SUKM), its production base in the UK (Wrexham, Wales), starting December 2010.

SUKM began producing solar cell modules in the spring of 2004, becoming Sharp’s second international production base for solar cell modules following a facility in the US. To meet the growing demand for solar cells, SUKM’s production capacity will be gradually increased, starting December 2010, from the current level of 250 MW per year to 500 MW by February 2011.

The solar cell market is expected to see expansion on a global basis, spurred on by environmental government policies in countries around the world. Sharp began research into solar cells in 1959 and since then has built up technologies and know-how as well as earned a reputation for reliability. Based on these achievements, Sharp is currently expanding its solar cell business from two sides—crystalline solar cells and thin-film solar cells. Sharp is also pushing forward with a “local production for local consumption” approach in order to increase cost competitiveness and shorten delivery times.

Sharp is aiming to become a company that provides total solutions in the field of solar power by globally expanding its new business model, which includes solar cell development, solar cell sales, and running a power generation business.