Thin-film PV development to see no short-term breakthrough, say Motech and Suntech
Source: DIGITIMES, Nuying Huang, Taipei; Adam Hwang, 25 March 2009
Tsuo and Shi speeches at PV convention in Taipei, compiled by Digitimes, March 2009
http://www.digitimes.com/news/a20090325PD202.html
Simon Tsuo, chairman of Taiwan-based Motech Industries, and his counterpart from China-based Suntech Power, Zhengrong Shi, both believe that there will not be any significant breakthrough in the development of thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules in the near future. Tsuo and Shi, two important figures in the solar industry in Taiwan and China, expressed their views in their keynote speeches delivered at the first Taiwan-China PV industry convention taking place in Taipei during March 24-25. Motech is the largest crystalline silicon solar cell maker in Taiwan, while Suntech is the largest crystalline silicon PV module maker in China.
2009 outlook for PV industry
Tsuo (Motech)
Not optimistic for the time being; 2Q and 3Q demand hinges on US market.
Shi (SunTech)
Conservative throughout 2009. Suntech has obtained/confirmed orders for 700MWp so far this year; may expand capacity from 1GWp to 1.4GWp if global demand turns good in 2H
Development potential of thin-film PV modules
Tsuo (Motech)
Except US-based First Solar, all other makers are still in R&D process
Shi (SunTech)
Some makers have started pilot production, but thin-film PV modules not competitive over next few years until production cost can be halved and energy conversion rates rise to 15%
Price drops of solar cells
Tsuo (Motech)
Caused by some makers in China; Taiwan-based makers still under pricing pressure
Shi (SunTech)
China-based makers irrationally cut prices due to financial troubles; may not be effective in landing orders.
Interaction between Taiwan, China PV players
Tsuo (Motech)
Taiwan and China makers cooperate through strategic alliance. Motech does not plan to acquire factories or makers in China.
Shi (SunTech)
Cooperation model: Taiwan makers provide operational experience in semiconductor and China makers provide polycrystalline silicon material.