Once completed, the manufacturing facility will add new operators and engineers, and will significantly expand the existing manufacturing operations in Vaughan, Ontario, doubling total employment at Calisolar's wholly owned subsidiary, 6N Silicon to more than 350.

And as set forth in the Letter of Intent, Suntech will assist with financing the expansion, and enter a multi-year agreement to purchase solar silicon produced by Calisolar at the new manufacturing facility.

"This partnership with Calisolar is an excellent opportunity for Suntech to accelerate the development of the solar industry in Ontario and meet the growing solar demand across Canada," said Steven Chan, President of Suntech's North American operations. "We have looked at the various alternatives for investment in Ontario and have determined that our continued commitment to the silicon refining industry provides the best opportunity to create long-term sustainable jobs given the product's export viability."