Samsung aims to lead global solar power market by 2015

SEOUL, Sept. 14 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Electronics Co., South Korea's leading
electronics maker, said Monday it will step up efforts to develop its solar power
business, aiming to become a leader in the global solar power market by 2015.

The company said it has commenced the operation of a 300 MW-preliminary
production line of photovoltaic (PV) cells. Photovoltaic cells, also known as
solar cells, make up a photovoltaic module, which is used as a component in a
larger system to convert solar energy into electricity for commercial and
residential applications.
"As we start the operation of the PV line, we have laid a foundation for
developing solar power with higher efficiency," said Choi Dong-wook, vice
president of solar energy business at Samsung Electronics in an e-mailed
statement. "We aim to become the world's leading provider of solar power by
2015."
The company, however, did not disclose how much was invested in the preliminary
line.
According to market researcher Green Tech Media, the global solar power market
will more than double from 5.1 GW in 2009 to 10.5 GW in 2012.
The South Korean electronics industry has been increasing its capital spending on
the solar-cell business in order to secure a new revenue source.
LG Display Co., South Korea's display maker, said in June that it will invest 50
billion won (US$40 million) to start commercial production of the solar power
cells by 2012.
ygkim@yna.co.kr
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