centrotherm photovoltaics signs major order in Qatar

Blaubeuren, Germany - centrotherm photovoltaics AG has signed an agreement with Qatar Solar Technologies (QST) to construct a silicon factory with a planned annual production capacity of 3,600 tons.

This is the first polysilicon production facility on the Arabian Peninsula. The photovoltaics specialist from Blaubeuren, Germany, is supplying technology and equipment to produce high-purity silicon, and will be responsible for engineering and project services all the way through to ramp-up.

A newly founded joint-venture between Solarworld AG and QST is backing the project. SolarWorld AG will hold a 29 percent stake in the joint-venture. Its partners are the Qatar Foundation (70 percent) and the Qatar Development Bank (1 percent). The Royal House of Qatar will act as patrons to the venture.

QST will invest a total of more than USD 500 million in the creation of the new production facilities with a planned annual capacity of 3,600 tons of high-purity polysilicon in the initial expansion phase. The production start-up is planned for the third quarter of 2012.

Source: IWR Online, 02 Mar 2010