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Compared with 2008, do you expect growth in the global market volume of newly installed PV power in 2009?
No, I do not expect such growth.
What will QS Solar be able to achieve in 2009?
Our company will be able to:
- Increase our capacity to 235MW
- Lower the costs in order to achieve a sales price of $1/Wp in 2010
What module price development do you expect for this and next year?
We expect a price development of $1/Wp in 2010; $0.8/Wp in 2011 and $0.6/Wp in 2012.
Where and when do you expect to see grid parity first?
Some regions, such as Hawaii, could already achieve grid parity, though in our view it is a complex issue which also involves balance of system cost and, of course, a different environment. We expect more regions to reach grid parity next year.
What are the major threats to the solar industry at the moment?
The Whole industry is still dependent on subsidies. With the current financial crisis, and falling module prices, the industry is facing a big challenge. This is especially true for companies with no real competitive edge.
What do you see as the most important market segments for thin-film products in the near future?
In our view, Solar Farms and BIPV (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) will form the most important market segments.
Do you foresee thin-film module prices dropping to $ 1/Wp in two years, and, if so, won't the major markets be China, USA and India?
Of course, the sales price must reach 1$/Wp. Will the major markets be China or India? We simply do not know.
How can solar PV compete with thermal solar energy plants in utility-scale PV projects in potential markets such as the USA, India, Spain, China and elsewhere?
Price reduction on both module and balance of system cost.
Isn't the solar industry likely to follow the wind-energy industry soon with more than 90% of the market shared by only 10 major manufacturers?
Could be - we do see lots of small manufacturers facing great challenges this year, and many small factories will most likely shut down if they don't have sufficient cash flow.
What do you expect to learn at The Solar Future conference?
To create synergy between all the firms in the value chain and exchange information. Everyone has to see the big picture and work together.
How will the solar industry look in 5 years from now? And your company?
The new boom without subsidies. QS Solar strives to become leader in the thin-film market.
Lynn will be one of the experts speaking at The Solar Future conference.
More information and registration for The Solar Future Conference: www.thesolarfuture.com
