Total said that Pennsylvania-based AEP has developed a low-carbon and energy-efficient process to produce polysilicon for photovoltaic panels.
The initial phase of the polysilicon production facility is in the commissioning phase and is slated to commence commercial production this year. The company claims that when operating at full capacity, the initial phase will produce up to 1,800 metric tons per year of granular polysilicon.
Total has a technical cooperation agreement encompassing joint development of projects with the company using AEP’s technology, the assignment of its personnel, and the creation of a joint research center.
The company has also signed a long term agreement to acquire from AEP high purity granular polysilicon, guaranteeing cost-competitive supply for the group’s solar energy subsidiaries.
Philippe Boisseau, president of Total Gas & Power, said: “This transaction reflects Total’s commitment to becoming a significant photovoltaic solar operator. We will be able to leverage a new technology to develop capabilities in yet another link in the photovoltaic solar chain, in addition to our current activities.”
