Systems and equipment for Asia’s largest solar products production plant
Zurich, Switzerland, Sept. 25, 2008 – ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won a contract with LDK Solar worth more than $36 million to supply electrical systems, equipment and related engineering and project management services for a new production plant in Xinyu City, China.
When completed, the facility in Jiangxi province will be Asia’s largest polysilicon plant, with an annual capacity of 15,000 metric tons. Polysilicon is used in the production of monocrystalline and multicrystalline solar wafers, the principal raw material used to produce the solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity.
As the main electrical contractor (MEC) for the project, ABB will provide equipment and services for the electrification of the plant to ensure a safe, reliable supply of power. The scope of supply includes low and medium voltage switchgear, distribution transformers and fully insulated tubular busbars, as well as project design, engineering and other services.
“ABB’s power and process know-how, combined with our unparalleled scope of supply, provide the comprehensive approach needed to serve as the Main Electrical Contractor for our customers,” said Veli-Matti Reinikkala, head of ABB’s Process Automation division. “Our delivery to LDK will ensure consistent, reliable power for their new production plant.”
The first production line of the new plant is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2008, and 5,000 to 7,000 metric tons of polysilicon are expected to be produced in 2009.
LDK Solar Co. Ltd., is a leading manufacturer of multicrystalline solar wafers, and sells wafers globally to manufacturers of photovoltaic products, including solar cells and solar modules.
ABB (www.abb.com) is a leader in power and automation technologies that enable utility and industry customers to improve performance while lowering environmental impact. The ABB Group of companies operates in around 100 countries and employs more than 115,000 people.