China-based Trina Solar, an integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic products, plans to start warehouse operations in Rotterdam, a major European port city in the Netherlands.

The warehouse is strategically located in the Port of Rotterdam, one of the largest ports in Europe. With service expected to begin by the end of 2008, the establishment of the warehouse is intended to strengthen Trina Solar's distribution network in Europe by providing module supply functions to respond swiftly to customer delivery requests.

Arturo Herrero, Trina Solar's vice president of sales and marketing, said that the company was pleased to announce the opening of its first warehouse in Europe, which would offer quality after-sales support to the company's customers and improve their module supply function. He added that this demonstrated Trina Solar's continual commitment to provide excellent customer service and accessible and effective solutions to its customers.

The news comes at a time when a combination of economic slow-down and the falling price of oil is putting pressure on companies specializing in alternative sources of energy.