Marketing Optimism versus Healthy Optimism

Mid-2012, the solar shutdowns and the industry’s painful correction continue. Motech announced that it will shutter US-based polysilicon manufacturer AE Polysilicon, and GE announced that it is stopping construction on its CdTe manufacturing facility in Colorado, citing un-competitively low prices and a return to R&D. In early 2012, CdTe manufacturer Abound made a very similar announcement of a return to R&D. Abound ceased operations officially in June, and filed for bankruptcy. The solar industry desperately needs a return to pricing sanity (meaning healthy margins) and frankly, needs to remain optimistic during these painful times – realistic optimism is possible, even now.