While some China-based makers are actively developing N-type mono-crystalline solar cells featuring energy conversion rates of over 20% in a bid to win lending from banks, Taiwan-based makers generally hold the opinion that the time is not right to begin production due to high equipment costs and relatively immature technology.
Equipment makers noted that inquiries for N-type mono-crystalline equipment have been rising but order visibility continues to be limited. This is because most firms have been reporting continuous net losses, hence capex has been limited, said equipment makers.
Taiwan-based solar firms stated that N-type mono-crystalline equipment is relatively expensive and currently firms do not have comprehensive control over the technology. In addition, production costs are likely to be high. But, Taiwan-based solar firms added, evaluation is on-going.
