SMM Survey of PV Market before the National Day Holiday and Forecast for Post-Holiday Market

SHANGHAI, Sep 30 (SMM) - Trades in polysilicon market remained normal before the National Day holiday. As polysilicon contracts are signed on a monthly basis, the restrictions on highway transportation had little impact on the market transactions. Polysilicon contracts for shipments in October were mostly signed at 306-309 yuan/kg, flat from September. Silicon wafer plants increased polysilicon purchases due to increase in their production schedules and the improvement of orders.   

Due to the increase in the supply of silicon wafers and the recovery of end demand, the battery cell market continued to pick up this week. Battery cell prices rose this week. The operating rates of battery cell makers picked up this month.

In terms of modules, the operating rates of module makers also increased, recovering to about 85% in September. However, module price has remained stable for the time being as power stations rejected price hike due to cost pressure.  

In terms of photovoltaic glass, downstream stocking activities increased as logistics will be restricted during the holiday. The increase in the operating rates of module makers also boosted the demand for photovoltaic glass.  Photovoltaic glass prices are expected to rise slightly after the holiday, driven by higher operating rates of module makers. 

In terms of EVA, the production of EVA particles and photovoltaic films will not stop during the National Day holiday. SMM data showed that the output of EVA particles decreased by 25% year-on-year in September. Photovoltaic film producers have stockpiled sufficient EVA particles. It is expected that the output of EVA photovoltaic particles and photovoltaic film will both increase after the holiday. It is expected that the monthly output of EVA photovoltaic particles will reach 85,000 mt, and the average operating rate of the photovoltaic film industry will reach 80%.