As module suppliers adapt to the slowdown of Chinese module demand in 2018 and 2019, global EPCs and developers are likely to see new Asian-produced panels being offered for both rooftop and ground-mount installations.
China-based integrated PV module manufacturer Wuxi Suntech Power Co has recently renewed its 25-year module performance warranty cover with Munich Re Group and Ping An Insurance, the fifth consecutive year, Suntech has cooperated with the both insurance companies, since 2014
PV Tech was recently given the opportunity to undertake an in-depth interview with Rongfang Yin, vice president of Trina Solar Group to understand the potential business impact on the company of the recent Chinese government policy changes and what if any new strategies were required.
Polysilicon producer REC Silicon expects its FBR (Fluidized bed reactor) polysilicon production to decline 42% in the third quarter of 2018, after recently announcing further cuts in workforce and production at its Moses Lake facility that would operate at only 25% utilisation rates. The company noted that it was evaluating the possible suspension of all of its solar related materials business in the US.
Major China-based PV module manufacturer Risen Energy, which entered PV Tech’s Top 10 module manufacturer’s rankings for the first time in 2017, has recently held a ground-breaking ceremony for its planned 5GW solar module manufacturing base in the Yiwu Information Optoelectronics High-tech Industrial Park, Zhejiang, China.
China-based integrated monocrystalline PV manufacturer Solargiga Energy Holdings has reported a small increase in external shipments in the first half of 2018, while revenue declined by less than 10%.
‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member JA Solar has said that its previously planned acquisition by an investor consortium via an all-cash transaction led by its founder, chairman and CEO, Baofang Jin had been completed, resulting in de-listing from the NASDAQ stock exchange.
Since Chinese investments into major cell and module facilities started - more than 10 years ago - success ultimately has been driven by overseas market-share gains, above other technical or financial benchmarks that otherwise would be expected.
China-based polysilicon and wafer producer Daqo New Energy is feeling the significant impact from the recent change in the Chinese government’s solar deployment policies as multicrystalline wafer shipments have been slashed by as much as 50% for the second quarter of 2018.