Hanwha exits solar-grade polysilicon business

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South Korean polysilicon producer’s have been impacted by high-electricity prices compared to Chinese rivals and a massive expansion of high-purity capacity that has resulted in average selling prices dropping below US$10/kg, below polysilicon production costs in South Korea. Image: Hanwha Solutions

South Korean solar-grade polysilicon producer, Hanwha Solutions is to exit the business by the end of 2020, following OCI’s decision to shutter polysilicon plants in the country. 

South Korean polysilicon producer’s have been impacted by high-electricity prices compared to Chinese rivals and a massive expansion of high-purity capacity that has resulted in average selling prices dropping below US$10/kg, below polysilicon production costs in South Korea.

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To end loss making, Hanwha Solutions is closing down polysilicon production of at least 15,000MT per annum. Hanwha Chemical originally started producing solar-grade polysilicon in 2013 to support its PV wafer, cell, module operations in China. 

PV Tech has also reported that larger rival, Wacker Chemie is to undergo major restructuring of its operations in light of major losses in its polysilicon division in 2019.

13 October 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
PV Tech has been running an annual PV CellTech Conference since 2016. PV CellTech USA, on 13-14 October 2026 is our fourth PV CellTech conference dedicated to solar manufacturing in the USA. From polysilicon, wafers, ingots, cells and modules, to critical component suppliers including glass and frames, the event connects every stage of the value chain under one roof. PV CellTech USA also brings together investors, innovators, manufacturers and industry stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen domestic solar manufacturing across the United States.

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