European Solar Giant Faces Closure Amidst US Expansion
Swiss solar module manufacturer Meyer Burger has revealed its decision to halt panel production in Germany, attributing the move to significant market distortions and more favourable investment conditions in the United States.
Expressing concerns over the lack of political interventions to ensure fair competition, the company aims to mitigate unsustainable losses by discontinuing operations.
Market Challenges and Strategic Shift
The overcapacity of solar panel production in China, resulting in price dumping, coupled with trade barriers imposed by India and the U.S., has created an untenable situation in the European market. This scenario has hindered Meyer Burger’s strategic plans, rendering full-scale production unfeasible.
Meyer Burger plans to shutter its plant in Saxony, the largest solar module production facility in Europe with approximately 500 employees, as early as April this year. A final decision on the way forward will be reached by the end of February.
Focus on the U.S. Market
The company intends to shift its focus to the U.S. market, leveraging the cutting-edge research and development achievements made in Europe. Cell production in Germany will persist to facilitate the expansion of module production in the U.S., which is now the primary region for pursuing profitable growth.
The U.S. market is highlighted as the most appealing market for solar manufacturers,
