Competitiveness boost by cost reduction and innovative production processes
Frankfurt am Main, 26.08.2015 – SEMI, the global semiconductor association, hands over the coordination of the International Technology Roadmap for Photovoltaics (ITRPV) to VDMA. ITRPV is an extremely successful industry platform of the photovoltaics industry which is supported by and gets input from international cell and module producers, leading research institutes, as well as machinery and material manufacturers. During the last years the roadmap has become a central guideline for the production of crystalline photovoltaics and defines short- and mid-term technological challenges for PV production and suggests adequate solution approaches.
“We look forward to further promoting the ITRPV. We have supported SEMI’s roadmapping activities already for the last few years and we can continue our work on an excellent basis. The key to success for long-term competitiveness of photovoltaics lies in consistent technological development. We are convinced that ITRPV is a valuablel contribution here”, says Dr. Florian Wessendorf, Managing Director of VDMA Photovoltaic Equipment
An essential element of ITRPV is the identification of cost reduction potential along the crystalline value added chain. The roadmap identifies cost reduction in regard to material, innovative production processes and the transitions towards high-efficiency concepts as essential steps to boost the competitiveness of photovoltaics. That is exactly the direction VDMA is heading for with ITRPV.
“We are glad to have found an association that will ensure a professional continuation of this activity. We are sure that the initiative we have started is useful and that the photovoltaics industry needs an independent technology roadmap”, says Stephan Raithel, Managing Director SEMI Europe.
VDMA and SEMI have cooperated in various projects with regard to photovoltaics production. For example, in 2013 a joint guideline for cost of ownership calculations has been published. Both associations together are issuing the Global PV Manufacturing Equipment Book-to-Bill Report. Moreover, they closely cooperate in terms of conferences and trade shows.
Website: www.vdma.org
