Taiwan thin-film solar module makers secure new orders
by Nuying Huang, Taipei; Esther Lam
Source: DIGITIMES, 7 July 2008
http://www.digitimes.com/bits_chips/a20080707PD210.html
During a recent photovoltaic (PV) show in Germany, Auria Solar and Green Energy Technology secured thin-film solar module orders that exceed their available capacity, according to industry sources. Auria Solar, a joint venture between E-ton Solar Tech and Lite-On Group, secured a batch of orders for 60 peak megawatt (MWp) during the show. There were even more orders but Auria decided not to take all after reviewing its capacity and volume production schedule, the sources said.
Sources at E-ton admitted that many customers approached Auria for thin-film solar modules during the show, while adding that the company’s 60MWp capacity at its first production line has been fully booked. Auria is preparing to land orders for its second production line, the sources said. Amid the new orders, Auria plans to bring forward its equipment installation schedule in September, implying that volume production may begin during late 2008, the sources noted.
Green Energy, in the meantime, secured a batch of thin-film solar module orders for 200MWp during the show. Since Green Energy produces modules in 8.5-generation (8.5G)-size panels, larger module sizes and fewer junction boxes are required, delivering a more competitive cost, the sources commented. Green Energy president Hurlon Lin responded by indicated that the present booking amount is about six times more than capacity. The company has scheduled an annual capacity of 30MWp in 2008 and 50MWp in 2009, he detailed.