China’s silicon metal output dipped in April amid more maintenance

SHANGHAI, May 13 (SMM)—China produced 197,000 mt of silicon metal in April, shrinking 5,000 mt or 2.4% from the month before, SMM data showed, as more capacities in Xinjiang and Yunnan came under maintenance. 

Silicon plants in Yunnan Nujiang have postponed resumption to mid-March as local electricity prices remained undetermined after the Labour Day holiday. Although Sichuan has entered a normal-water period since April 25, only a few silicon plants have restarted production. Most of the producers in Yunnan and Sichuan are expected to restore production in June, a high water period. 
Silicon metal output is likely to rise slightly to about 220,000 mt in May.  
According to Hesheng’s plan, its annual output is expected to be around 800,000 mt in 2021, a net increase of 300,000 mt over 2020. East Hope, which has recovered from production accidents, will also contribute some output, but postponed resumption and the shortage of power supply will shorten the production period in southwest producing area. China’s silicon metal output is likely to total 2.5 million mt in 2021, rising 300,000 mt or 14% from a year earlier.