Industry sources indicated that quotes of high efficiency solar cells have been lowered to US$0.45-0.47/W from US$0.46-0.48/W.This is seen as a move to secure June orders.
Quotes of solar cells in China have remained around US$0.41-0.43/W.
Taiwan-based solar firms noted that Italy will cut solar subsidies in end of June.This has stimulated installation demand as customers rush to apply to be eligible for subsidies.
Plus,Germany will allow system firms to be eligible for incentive rates before the April 1 cuts if projects can be completed before end of June.The two factors have been causing demand in the solar market to exceed expectations in the second quarter.
Industry sources in China pointed out that capacity utilization rates for tier-one firms have been high because the firms have been doing well in emerging markets.Industry sources believe sales in the second quarter for China-based solar firms will show growth.
Despite optimistic conditions for the solar firms in Greater China in recent months,this rush of installation demand before the incentive cuts is near its end.The industry is less confident about orders in June.
June solar demand unclearPhoto:Digitimes file photo
