Canadian Solar, a global solar manufacturer, has revealed plans to construct a state-of-the-art 5GW n-type wafer production facility in Chonburi, Thailand. The production is slated to commence in March 2024, boasting an annual capacity of 5GW. Initially, the facility will cater to the demand of the existing TOPCon (tunnel oxide passivated contact) cell manufacturing plant located in the same region.
The strategic move aligns with Canadian Solar's commitment to fortify its supply chain, enhancing resilience and diversification. Thomas Koerner, Senior VP at Canadian Solar, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Establishing this solar wafer factory in Thailand is a key milestone that will enable us to better serve our US customers with a more diversified and resilient supply chain, complementing our recently announced investments in the US in solar cell and solar module manufacturing.”
The facility in Thailand is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the requirements of the latest and adjusted Anti-Dumping/Countervailing Duty (AD/CVD) ruling by the US Department of Commerce. The company aims to responsibly navigate trade regulations and contribute to a sustainable solar industry.
Looking ahead, the produced wafers will serve the US solar cell production facility currently under construction in Jeffersonville, Indiana. The Indiana facility is anticipated to become operational in 2025, further bolstering Canadian Solar's global manufacturing capabilities.
Earlier this year, the US Department of Commerce issued a ruling identifying five solar PV manufacturers circumventing import tariffs by relocating portions of their supply chains to Southeast Asia. The tariffs, however, remain suspended until July 2024, following US President Joe Biden's two-year waiver. Canadian Solar's strategic expansion aligns with industry dynamics and regulatory considerations, positioning the company for continued growth in the evolving solar market.
