BP Solar has reported a production capacity decline for the fourth quarter of 2008. The reasons for this were a combination of the running down and expected closure of its 50MW photovoltaic cell and module manufacturing plant in Australia, as well as a fire at its joint venture production plant in India, Tata BP Solar. BP detailed the production disruption and decline in MW capacity in its latest quarterly financial filings.
Nominal capacity in the third quarter of 2008 was 277MW, but fell to 213MW in the fourth quarter, due in particular to the fire at Tata BP Solar plant, which disrupted production. Nominal capacity in 2008 was therefore below 4Q07 levels of 228MW, indicating an overall decline in MW capacity in 2008.
Try Premium for just $1
- Full premium access for the first month at only $1
- Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
- Cancel anytime during the trial period
Premium Benefits
- Expert industry analysis and interviews
- Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
- Exclusive event discounts
Or get the full Premium subscription right away
Or continue reading this article for free
BP Solar is currently transitioning to larger scale production plants to reduce costs as the competitive landscape intensifies. BP Solar is adding significant new capacity in the coming years with new large-scale plants currently under construction or in early ramp mode in Spain.
