TSM plans poly-silicon factory in the Netherlands

Considering the high demand for high-purity poly-silicon caused by the increased demand for high-efficiency solar cells, continued short supply of high-purity poly-silicon is expected.

Therefore The Silicon Mine B.V. (“TSM”) was founded for the construction and operation of a state-of the-art poly-silicon plant at the Chemelot premises in Geleen (The Netherlands).

Capacity 15,000 m.t./yr, with a first phase of 4,500 m.t./yr. Construction period of the first phase is estimated to be 20 months, with an investment of around EUR 400 million.

TSM will produce very pure (the highest grade) poly-silicon for the booming solar energy market. The industry trend is changing and today increasingly high purity grades are being requested. Only a few companies are able to meet these demands due to technology constraints of existing facilities and/or lack of technology know how.

TSM has shortlisted a number of commercial banks to whom information has been issued for debt financing. These banks will be granted a guarantee for the debt financing from the Ministery of Economic Affairs, The Province of Limburg and four local municipalities.

TSM is currently providing the opportunity to equity and debt providers to invest in this project and obtain exposure to the booming solar market.