Solvay/Huatai expand hydrogen peroxide capacity in China to meet growing PV demand

Belgian chemical firm Solvay has expanded the capacity of its Shandong Huatai Interox Chemical site for hydrogen peroxide in China. Building on its existing partnership with Huatai Chemical, the alliance will enable the site to produce 48 kilotonnes of photovoltaic (PV)-grade hydrogen peroxide annually by 2025.

This strategic investment not only reinforces Solvay’s worldwide market leadership but also positions it to efficiently meet the rising demand from the PV industry, further supporting the growth of the renewable energy sector in Northern China, it adds.

Solar panels harness the power of PV cells to transform sunlight into electrical energy. Throughout their manufacturing, these cells are meticulously cleaned through several stages. Here, hydrogen peroxide plays a crucial role as a powerful oxidising agent in the cleaning solution.

Its appeal lies in its ability to dissociate into water and oxygen, making it an environmentally friendly choice for the cleaning process. The use of high-quality hydrogen peroxide is essential to enhance the performance of photovoltaic cells, which is a key element in ensuring the optimal conversion efficiency of solar panels.

“In alignment with China’s ambitious carbon neutrality targets, our collaboration positions Solvay as a key contributor. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and building on our established presence in the high-purity hydrogen peroxide market, this strategic partnership capitalises on the rapid expansion of China’s photovoltaic market,” said Philippe Kehren, Solvay CEO. “This project highlights our commitment to sustainability and strengthens our capability to secure a more significant share of the thriving Chinese market, further enhancing our well-established industrial presence in the region.”

“Our joint venture with Solvay is a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainability. This expansion is not just about increasing capacity; it’s about contributing significantly to China’s carbon neutrality goals and the photovoltaic industry’s growth. By boosting our site’s capability, we are not only meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving market but also reinforcing our position as a key player in the renewable energy sector,” said Wang Yukang, Chairman of the Huatai Chemicals Group.

Since 2010, Solvay and Huatai have been successfully operating the joint venture, which integrates Solvay’s hydrogen peroxide technology.

Situated in the Dongying Technical and Economics Development Zone of the Shandong Province, this plant has strategically positioned Solvay at the heart of the dynamic Chinese market, which is recognised as the world’s largest for hydrogen peroxide.

Solar panels rely on PV cells to convert solar energy into electricity. During the production process, these cells undergo multiple washes, and hydrogen peroxide, a powerful oxidising agent, is a vital component in the cleaning solution. Its appeal lies in its ability to dissociate into water and oxygen, making it an environmentally friendly choice for the cleaning fluid. The use of high-quality hydrogen peroxide is paramount in enhancing the output of PV cells, a critical factor in ensuring the optimal conversion efficiency of solar panels.