AU Optronics Corp (AUO, 友達光電), the nation’s second-biggest LCD panel maker, yesterday said its solar modules have received certification from the UK, paving the way for the company’s entry into the British market.
Like other local companies, AU Optronics is diversifying into the fast-growing green energy industry to help minimize the risks of the volatile flat-panel industry.
“This is an important milestone for the company’s development in the European solar market,” the Hsinchu-based company said in a statement released yesterday.
The UK would be a new market for the company after it worked with European partners to break into open-field photovoltaic system and rooftop solar system projects in Germany, Italy, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
According to market researcher Solarbuzz’s forecast, solar industry installation will grow at a slower-than-expected annual rate of 25 percent to 20.4 gigawatts next year, from this year’s 16.3 gigawatts as Germany and the Czech Republic cut subsidies.
Home ownership in the UK stands at 42 percent, which is higher than in Germany, Italy, France and other European countries, the company said.
In addition, since the solar power buy-back scheme has been implemented this year, total installed solar power capacity is growing significantly, making the country a promising solar market.
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