Developing a benchmark method for the value chain of the thin-layer photovoltaic industry in Saxony
On behalf of the Saxony State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Labour and Transport (SMWA), a technological/business management method for analyzing the value chain for thin-layer technologies was developed in collaboration with the European research company, Dünne Schichten e. V. (EFDS), and a start made on validating it. The focus was on a comprehensive cost model for the value chain of thin-layer technologies based on standardized cost parameters, using which the main cost drivers, in particular, can be identified.
In line with the aim of the photovoltaic industry to achieve so-called network parity in the foreseeable future, production costs need to be significantly lowered across the entire value-added process. In contrast to crystalline silicon technologies, no established findings in respect of the cost reduction potential and related R&D requirements across the individual stages of the entire value chain are available for thin-layer technologies. Such findings are, however, required to enable the state government to assess what measures to introduce in order to improve framework conditions in Saxony. The Free State thereby intends to make a contribution to strengthening the competitiveness of the photovoltaic industry in Saxony.
The European research company, Dünne Schichten e. V. (EFDS), was commissioned to develop, in the course of its study, an appropriate technological/business management method for analyzing the value chain for thin-layer technologies and compare it with that provided by the industry and technology research establishments. This method should be suitable for examining the value-added process in terms of optimization or cost reduction potential and take into account the latest technological developments in process optimization, automation and standardization.
Principal
Sächsisches Staatsministeriums für Wirtschaft, Arbeit und Verkehr (SMWA)
