October 2010 contract prices for polycrystalline silicon solar cells will be the same as the September level of US$1.35-1.38/W although PV module makers and system providers have asked for reductions, according to Taiwan-based solar cell makers.

Faced with pressure of price cuts in negotiating October contract prices with clients, solar cell makers successfully maintained the current price level by arguing that current contract prices are still lower than current spot market quotes of US$1.4-1.42/W and their production capacities are still insufficient to meet total demand, the sources pointed out.

But because PV module quotes in Europe are falling, module makers and system providers are expected to demand reduced contract prices for November, the sources pointed out.

As prices for solar-grade wafers went up in September, solar cell makers originally planned to raise October contract prices but have had to absorb the resulting increase in production cost, the sources indicated.