DSM acquires Chinese backsheet manufacturer Sunshine

Share

DSM and Sunshine had previously entered into a commercial alliance in 2016, DSM will now take over all of Sunshine's technology and assets. With the acquisition finalized, DSM will begin offering protective polymer backsheets as part of its portfolio for the solar PV market. Financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed.

Having already seen success in this market with its anti-reflective coating, the Dutch company now seeks to build up a broader portfolio of products for the solar industry.

DSM identified Sunshine as a strong fit thanks to the innovation and design flexibility of its backsheet products. “Sunshine has been able to combine unique high performance and cost efficiency without using fluorinated materials,” said DSM Vice President of Advanced Surfaces Oscar Goddijn. “As a high end and fully recyclable product, this backsheet fits very well into DSM’s overall product portfolio and strategy.

In its release announcing the acquisition, DSM highlighted Sunshine's proprietary technology base, including its co-extrusion production technique. The Dutch company says co-extrusion, “eliminates the risk of interlayer adhesion and delivers superior performance characteristics compared to current laminated backsheets.”

Popular content

With this acquisition, DSM is also looking to secure position for its products in the Chinese market. As the world’s largest producer of PV modules China has the highest demand for backsheets and other products in DSM’s portfolio.

“The acquisition aligns with DSM’s sustainable development strategy, and also fits with China’s 13th Five Year Plan for Energy,” said DSM China President Weiming Jiang. “It further demonstrates DSM’s support for growing local products made for global consumption and for expanding China’s clean energy market.”

This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.