Celebrating 150 years in September of 2014, Schmid Group, a family-owned and operated company, has continually adapted and diversified its offering. Beginning as an iron foundry, Schmid has evolved into new areas of photovoltaic, PCB, display and optics, industrial solutions, and energy systems. Dr. Christian Buchner, Vice President of Business Unit PV commented, “We have always been strong in adapting to new markets. This is why we have been around for over 150 years.”

With five technology centers worldwide, Schmid has become an innovation leader in the photovoltaic industry. “We have a lot of process technology and know-how, this is what has made us successful.” Dr. Buchner continued, “We are the only player that can deliver turn-key projects with the end products leading worldwide, with a reasonable cost of ownership.” Investing over EUR 125 million in research and development in the past four years and employing 200 researchers, Schmid is the market leader in wet processes.

In South America, Schmid has already obtained three major projects and looks forward to beginning work by the end of 2014. As South America becomes an increasingly important market for wafers, cells, and modules, Schmid continues to foster strong partnerships with both the government and private sector. Discussing partnership, Dr. Buchner concluded, “Schmid truly values partnerships. We have had many clients for over 45 years. We look forward to bringing this experience to Brazil and assisting companies to become competitive on a global market.”