In 2009, revenues for the world PV manufacturing equipment market declined by an estimated 23% on 2008.  The economic downturn and resulting problems that equipment end users have experienced with securing capital from financial institutions have been the most impacting factors.

Economic conditions are projected to improve slowly during 2010, which will stimulate PV manufacturing equipment growth.  The first half of 2010 is likely to be a difficult time for most PV manufacturing equipment suppliers, with end users (and financial institutions) remaining cautious over large investment.  PV manufacturing equipment investment during the second half of 2010 is projected to be stronger as recovery continues.  A full recovery, to 2008 levels, is forecast in 2011. 

Some of the key findings are:

• The world Market for PV Manufacturing Equipment is forecast to exceed $9.2 billion in 2013.
• In 2009, revenues for the world PV manufacturing equipment market were estimated to have declined by 23% on 2008.
• Overall, the average selling price decrease of PV manufacturing equipment in 2009 was estimated at 7.7%.
• Thin film equipment is projected to experience highest growth through to 2013, with world revenues forecast to reach just over $3 billion.
• China revenues were estimated to account for just over 40% of the Asia Pacific total in 2008.
• The total world market for automation products used in all PV manufacturing equipment under review was estimated at just over $500 million in 2008.
• The research provides market share analysis for the leading suppliers of PV manufacturing equipment at a world and regional level.

• PV manufacturing equipment market size estimates for 2008 with growth forecasts to 2013.
• Market share analyses for the leading suppliers of the world, Americas, EMEA and Asia Pac PV manufacturing equipment markets.
• Automation component market size estimates for 2008 with growth forecasts to 2013.
• Detailed revenue and unit shipment analyses for 6 PV process areas; incorporating 18 different equipment types.
• PV manufacturing equipment market analyses for 12 geographic regions, including Germany, Spain, China, Japan and US.
• Detailed discussion of the 2008 PV manufacturing equipment market and the factors that will impact future growth.