Some makers of crystalline silicon solar cells have lowered their quotes for cells meeting a minimum energy conversion rate of 16.8% to US$0.58-0.60/W to clean inventories, dropping by 8-11% from the mainstream price level of US$0.65/W a week earlier, according to industry sources. Prices may further drop to US$0.50/watt in the fourth quarter, the sources pointed out.
Peng Heng Chang, CEO of Taiwan-based Motech, said it is the possibility that the fourth quarter will not outperform the third.
Most customers have been demanding solar cells with a conversion efficiency of at least 16.8%. However, current quotes of suitalbe solar cells are around US$0.58-0.60/W.
Some solar cell firms have been holding clearance sales to maintain cash flow. Also, firms with relatively clear order visibility have been more flexible in price negotiations as they expect their peers to clear out their inventories with lower prices.
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