DuPont anticipates that the solar PV market will grow by double digits over the next years, driving demand for existing and new materials that are more cost effective.

The market size today is about US$30 billion, and according to industry estimates, will increase to US$70bn by 2013. The growth rate for thin-film is projected to be about twice as high as demand for crystalline silicon, and DuPont expects this increase to drive specifications for both new and existing products that serve the thin-film industry.

Within the past year, DuPont has made “significant investments” in product development and capacity expansions for brands used in photovoltaic module manufacturing, including DuPont™ Tedlar® polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) films and DuPont™ Solamet® thick film metallisation pastes, consistent with the rise in demand.

“Through investments in materials, technology development and manufacturing, DuPont is accelerating its ability to deliver innovations that will improve the lifetime and efficiency of photovoltaic modules,” David B. Miller, Group Vice President DuPont Electronic and Communication Technologies, said at the Jefferies 7th Global Clean Technology Conference.

“Photovoltaic technology is in its infancy and the opportunities in this market are extensive. DuPont is uniquely positioned to bring new, advanced technologies for future growth in traditional crystalline silicon and emerging thin-film photovoltaic segments. We also are investing in greater production capability to help keep pace with the fast rising global demand.”