Kesterite tech news
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) announced on September 11, 2026, the successful validation of its "Cu--Sn--Zn" (Kesterite) enhanced thin--film architecture. By incorporating a Kesterite--based hole--transport layer into its traditional Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) stack, the company achieved a record 21.5% conversion efficiency for a full--sized module prototype. This hybrid approach leverages the high absorption coefficients of Kesterite to capture shorter wavelengths more effectively than pure CdTe, potentially extending the operational life and spectral range of the modules. The company confirmed that this technology will be a focal point of its upcoming Analyst Day on October 15, 2026, where it will detail the transition of its Ohio manufacturing complex to this hybrid chemistry.