17 Aug 2011

Solar panel factory to close

2:00 pm on 17 August 2011

The only factory in Australia which manufactures solar cells and panels is closing.

Silex Solar blames a ''very tough market'' for its decision to close the plant in western Sydney. Thirty jobs will be lost.

The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union blames the New South Wales state government, for cutting a solar bonus scheme.

The ABC reports Silex will continue to manufacture solar cells overseas.