Asia Pulse Pte Ltd (April 27, 2009)

TOKYO, April 27 Asia Pulse - Eighteen Japanese industries are now involved in solar-cell-related manufacturing accompanying the development of such varied product types as thin-film silicon and compound solar cells, according to a recent study by Teikoku Databank Ltd.

The study reveals that 27 companies in Japan produce solar cells or solar power generation equipment, while 221 make components and materials and 310 turn out manufacturing systems. In addition to electrical equipment and machinery manufacturers, firms that produce solar-cell-related components and materials now include such industries as printing, ceramics and textiles.

Solar cell production sites are concentrated in the Kinki and Kyushu regions. Sharp Corp. (TSE:6753) and Kyocera Corp. (TSE:6971) are starting up plants in the Kinki region, while Showa Shell Sekiyu KK (5002) is launching one in Kyushu. Parts and materials manufacturers have been setting up shop in Kyushu since 2001, causing related industries to get caught up in the ripple effect.

Electrical equipment makers account for half of those producing solar cell manufacturing equipment, with semiconductor manufacturing equipment firms being particularly numerous.

(Nikkei)