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Solar Coatings Company Opens New Headquarters
Solar technology company SunDensity has reportedly opened a new headquarters and research and design facility in Rochester, New York, to produce its specialty coatings for solar panels.
According to the company’s release, a grand opening ceremony was held in the 6,000-square-foot facility on Oct. 24.
SunDensity states that it had been in a temporary space in the building, though recently made an investment in the new location, which included enhancements to the site and new equipment for the facility.
SunDensity backs Rochester by establishing headquarters, R&D facilities in Sibley Square https://t.co/TPzyanN5Zn pic.twitter.com/6h6Cq3s6zn
— RBJ (@RBJdaily) October 19, 2023
In a report from the Business Journal, Henry Schek, SunDensity’s CEO, stated that there should be room for growth at the new site, which was expected to have around 15 workers at the beginning of operations. In addition to research and development, there will also reportedly be pilot manufacturing at the location.
Schek estimated that it would take up to three years to commercialize the company’s solar panel coatings technology and expected to have a full-scale manufacturing operation in the Rochester area.
He added the market is “dynamic, yet commoditized,” and that the company is constantly keeping its costs in check.
Additionally, the company’s founder, president and chief technology officer, Nishikant Sonwalkar, stated that Rochester is an “ideal location” for SunDensity. He added that it is the “photonic capital in the U.S. with access to key labs, facilities and universities.”
Sonwalkar stated that the company’s smart coating for solar panels can convert light into electricity more efficiently than current methods, while also reportedly lowering the cost of production, which in turn could allow for the widespread adoption of solar energy.
“We have a very innovative, out-of-the-box approach,” Sonwalkar said, adding that the new pilot facility could be reproduced in other locations that are closer to customers as the company continues to grow.
SunDensity also reportedly recently received $1 million in the Luminate competition, as well as funding from the National Science Foundation. Additionally, the business has reportedly secured financing from multiple sources, including Excell Partners, Launch NY and the Rochester Angel Network.
The company also recently received backing and financial support from investor and founder of Cypress Semiconductors, TJ Rodgers.
Sonwalkar stated that maintaining interest in this technology is needed to receive additional capital and keep the business moving forward.
“We need the support to take the next step and to continue to grow,” he said.
