Leading integrated high-efficiency monocrystalline module manufacturer and ‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member LONGi Green Energy Technology is believed to have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Saudi Arabia’s major commercial and industrial trading company, El Seif Group to establish a large-scale solar manufacturing infrastructure in the Kingdom.
Henkel Adhesive Electronics has developed a series of ECAs (electrically conductive adhesives) designed to facilitate lower-cost, improved reliability and process-friendly assembly of solar devices. The LOCTITE ABLESTIK ICP 8000 series ECAs have been designed to elevate module performance and accommodate various assembly processes including cell interconnect ribbon bonding and shingled solar modules.
Leading ‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member JinkoSolar has set further records by establishing new P-type and N-type PV module power ratings ahead of the largest annual industry exhibition, SNEC in Shanghai, China.
United Renewable Energy Co., Ltd. (URE), the planned name for three of Taiwan’s merchant solar cell and module producers, Gintech Energy Corp, Neo Solar Power (NSP) and Solartech Energy are still evaluating the commercial rationale of establishing a US-based PV manufacturing plant, post the merger, which is being targeted for October 1, 2018.
‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member Canadian Solar reported first quarter 2018 financial results that were better than expected as revenue and shipments were higher than guided with further PV power plant sales completed in the quarter.
Specialist PV manufacturing equipment supplier Amtech Systems is looking to expand its component outsourcing to include solar equipment production in China to remain competitive.
‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member Hanwha Q CELLS has lowered full-year shipment guidance to 5,600MW to 5,800MW, compared to its initial guidance of 6,000MW to 6,200MW, which could be attributed to the impact of the US Section 201 trade case duties and the company’s refocus on the European market.
Leading ‘Silicon Module Super League’ (SMSL) member JinkoSolar has reset the P-type monocrystalline cell conversion efficiency record at 23.95%, through a range of wafer to cell optimisation, notably its selective emitter (SE) formation.
PV laser technology equipment specialist InnoLas Solutions has been sold to Swiss industrial investment and management firm, CGS for an undisclosed sum.
Kyocera Corporation a multinational electronics and related components manufacturer has made a significant US$459 million impairment charge on long-term polysilicon supply contracts, as well as downsizing its solar operations in the US, which were the primary reason for its Life & Environment Group (solar PV included) reporting a large operating loss in fiscal 2018.