UbiQD, a company specializing in quantum dot (QD) nanotechnology, has entered into an exclusive, multi-year agreement to supply its proprietary fluorescent QD technology to First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR). This agreement facilitates the incorporation of QD technology into First Solar’s thin film bifacial photovoltaic (PV) solar panels. This marks a high-volume QD supply agreement outside of the display industry. The collaboration builds on a joint development effort between the two companies that began in 2023, which has now led to this supply agreement and an expanded research and development collaboration.
UbiQD’s proprietary quantum dot technology, originally developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory and MIT, is designed to increase the bifacial quantum efficiency of light conversion for specific wavelengths. When integrated into solar panel encapsulation, these QDs can enhance light capture, particularly on the underside of bifacial panels, with the potential to increase the efficiency of that side. UbiQD’s quantum dots utilize a non-toxic combination of copper and indium, replacing cadmium. First Solar anticipates the commercial rollout of QD-integrated panels in late 2026.
The supply agreement is expected to enable UbiQD’s production to reach over 100 metric tons per year, which would exceed the global display industry’s current demand for quantum dots. This development follows UbiQD’s $20 million Series B fundraise in April 2025, supporting plans to establish a high-volume QD manufacturing facility in New Mexico. The collaboration between these two U.S.-based companies aligns with efforts to expand competitive power generation capacity within the United States.
At utility-scale, gains in bifaciality resulting from QD integration can contribute to overall energy yield. This initiative positions quantum dots as a technology for solar spectrum optimization beyond their traditional application in displays. The effort contributes to advancements in efficiency and materials for solar energy generation, supporting manufacturers in a globally competitive market.
Read the full announcement from UbiQD here and the Wall Street Journal article here.
July 10, 2025
