SILICON FOR PV INDUSTRY: DEMAND, SUPPLY AND GROWTH PROSPECTS

摘要

Over the past five years shipment of Photovoltaic (PV) modules has grown from ca. 250 MWp to ca. 1,400 MWp. More than 95% of this impressive growth is based on crystalline silicon technology. At present, growth of the PV-Industry is limited by the availability of suitable silicon feedstock coming exclusively from processes designed for the semiconductor industry. The paper analyses the present demand and supply situation and gives a fore cast up to 2010. In addition, an overview is given on silicon production technologies relevant for industrial production as well as on new technologies. The importance of high yield silicon processing (crystallization, wafering, solar cell production) and high solar cell efficiencies are stressed to reach low cost/kWh for solar electricity. Long term growth prospects for the industry are considered as well.