Although the cost reductions have achieved ahead of schedule in polysilicon and wafer production, the declining prices of wafer in PV industry could lead to the loss of wafer supplier in the second half of the year, warned by PV Crystalox Solar.
PV Crystalox noted that wafer ASPs during second quarter remained broadly in line with earlier expectations but weak demand meant that wafer shipment volumes for the first half of the year would be slightly below the guidance of 210-225MW issued in May.
PV Crystalox said that wafer ASPs in the second quarter stayed the same level according to earlier expectations. However, the weak demand meant that wafer shipment volumes for the first half of the year would be slightly below the guidance of 210-225MW issued in May.
According to the annual report of PV Crystalox, shipments are expected to range from 225MW to 240MW in the first half of 2011.
Polysilicon production costs have been falling as full capacity at its plant in Germany is expected to reach nameplate capacity of 1,800MT during the second half of 2011. Fully loaded production cost has been below the average price of contracted polysilicon.
PV Crystalox highlighted in its annual report that average wafer production costs had decreased by 20% during 2010, which exceeded the expected cost reduction target of 10–15%. PV Crystalox noted that it was targeting wafer cost reduction of a further 10–15% in 2011.