Major PV energy provider (PVEP) SunEdison has secured a 660MW solar cell supply agreement with Korean-based cell producer, Shinsung Solar Energy.
SunEdison management had noted in its most recent earnings call that it was considering alternative strategic supply deals in case the latest US anti-dumping case results in higher duties on imported Chinese solar cells and initial duties on Taiwanese produced cells.
The company currently outsources cell and module production primarily to OEM firms.
“As our global business grows, we are pleased to begin a relationship with Shinsung to help meet our demand,” said David Ranhoff, president Solar Materials, SunEdison. “We've strategically selected partners in multiple geographies to ensure we are utilising high performance, cost-effective solar cells while complying with regional sourcing requirements. This agreement with Shinsung is another step forward in our ongoing efforts to strengthen our asset-light supply chain while delivering maximum performance and value to our customers.”
The company recently reached the 1GW mark in outsourcing PV module production requirements, in less than three years.
ReneSola secured a 103MW solar cell supply contract with Shinsung in mid-2013, said to account for around 30% of its total annual production capacity. The deal was set for one year. ReneSola has around 1GW of outsourced manufacturing.