Oerlikon to outsource production of thin-film PV equipment to Flextronics in future
by Nancy Cheng, Taipei; Adam Hwang
Source: DIGITIMES, 5 May 2009
http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20090505PD201.html
Switzerland-based Oerlikon, in preparation for fast emerging orders for production equipment of amorphous silicon (a-Si) thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules from the Asian market once the global economy recovers, will outsource the production of such equipment to Singapore-based EMS provider Flextronics International, with components supply from Taiwan-based makers, according to Oerlikon Taiwan.
In contrast with continual drops in prices of polycrystalline silicon solar cells, a-Si thin-film PV modules will have larger market room for development, Oerlikon Taiwan indicated. Asia is an increasingly important market for Oerlikon and the OEM production by Flextronics in Singapore is for Oerlikon to better access the market, Oerlikon Taiwan said.
As producers of a-Si thin-film PV modules will be capable of adjusting processes after they are familiar with the equipment, they will be able to produce some of the equipment instead of relying on turnkey lines for capacity expansion. Oerlikon Taiwan indicated. Therefore, Oerlikon will focus on three key items of equipment: PECVD (plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition), laser scribers and TCO (transparent conductive oxide), Oerlikon Taiwan said.