Due to the versatility of polysilicon as used in all types of semiconductor units, and the increase in PV, there is currently a global shortage of polysilicon. The current shortage has sent spot and long-term contract polysilicon prices up while providing opportunities for companies to enter this market. The increase in polysilicon production is expected to close the current supply demand gap and lead to supply exceeding demand in 2009-2010 (industry players differ in their forecasts):
Source: Lehman Brothers
The current deficit of raw materials has hampered the development of PV and the broadening scale of its use. The continuing increase in PV capacities has caused utilization rates to drop from 88% in 2004 to 62% in 2007:
Solar Cell capacity utilization. Source: Solarbuzz and Lehman Brothers estimates, 2007
That is why, with the support of the competencies available, NITOL SOLAR has taken a decision to build the business of producing the feedstock base for PV ─ polysilicon.
