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Thursday, October 10, 2013

IKEA solar panel move opens opportunities for Taiwan firms

Want China Times, CNA 2013-10-10

The IKEA logo. (Photo/Xinhua)

Swedish furniture retailer IKEA's decision to sell solar panels and installation service to consumers in the UK could prove a boon to Taiwanese solar companies, a market analysis firm said Wednesday.

"Taiwan should find more possibilities outside of original equipment manufacturing and original design manufacturing," said EnergyTrend analyst Arthur Hsu, who suggested local firms consider establishing their own brands.

Small though it is, Taiwan's comprehensive solar power industry is capable of everything from design to assembly, and should take advantage of the chance to work with IKEA, Hsu told CNA.

The home furnishings shop's expansion into solar power could change the way solar panels are sold in the region, possibly even all over the world, EnergyTrend said in a note.

"Retailers like IKEA may become the regional trade centers for modules in the future," and by offering services like technology consultancy and installation services, such retailers are likely to replace online trading systems and contractors, according to EnergyTrend.

IKEA plans to provide roof-top solar power solutions within the UK over the next 10 months, with the rest of Europe set to follow afterward, EnergyTrend said, adding that the move from low-priced furniture to energy is based on IKEA's belief that renewable energy will become the major supply for residential and commercial power in the future.

Roof-top solar panels are becoming mainstream in Europe, as subsidies for ground-mounted solar solutions are likely to be ceased, EnergyTrend added.

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