Order Focus: Roth & Rau reaches record order backlog

Advanced processing technology for c-Si solar cell production were put at the forefront of Roth & Rau’s reported record new orders worth €347 million since the beginning of the year. The company noted that its next-generation ‘SiNA’ antireflective coating systems were a key part of its success, having so far this year sold the equivalent capacity of 1.85GWp, while the company has also received letters of intent for further SiNA systems with a total capacity of 1.45GWp. These systems are due for delivery in the second quarter of 2011.

“The record volume of new orders received in recent months provides clear evidence that by developing products such as the new-generation SiNA and diversifying our market position we have managed to further expand our market position,” commented Dr. Dietmar Roth, CEO of Roth & Rau AG.

Roth & Rau also noted that orders on hand include the equivalent capacity of 3GWp in the form of old-generation SiNA systems and the DEP antireflective coating system offered by its subsidiary OTB Solar. Order deliveries are also said to be scheduled for completion by the end of the first quarter of 2011.

The company further revealed that it has received a first order for its hetero-junction technology from a U.S.-based customer, which is claimed to provide solar cell conversion efficiencies of over 20%. Roth & Rau said it was currently the only equipment manufacturer to offer production systems for this technology.

“The placing of the first order for hetero-junction technology represents a major milestone in the effective marketing of this technology, especially as part of future turnkey production lines,” added Roth.