Intel, Samsung may be looking at solar

Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is considering making acquisitions in the solar energy sector, according to news reports Friday.

The U.S. chipmaking giant had no comment for the Cleantech Group on the reports.

Intel is said to have already made contact with potential target companies, including some in Germany.

Samsung is also reportedly considering acquisitions in the industry.

Chipmakers and solar power companies both use silicon as raw material in their manufacturing.

In March, German solar manufacturer SolarWorld said it would bring a large facility in Hillsboro, Ore., online, saying it would be the biggest solar plant in North America (see SolarWorld eyes North America with large new factory).

The location of the new plant is near Intel's main factory in the U.S.

Japan's Komatsu Group originally invested $500 million in the facility, outfitting it as a silicon chip plant.

The factory never opened due to weak demand in the chip industry.

SolarWorld bought the plant for $40 million.

The German company plans to establish silicon wafer and cell production at the site, reaching a capacity of 500 megawatts by 2009.

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