Interview with Liu Yong, CEO of DAS Solar

Arnaud Catrice, Co-founder and CEO of SYNAPSUN, had the privilege of speaking with Liu Yong, CEO of DAS Solar, to explore their ambitious project for photovoltaic reindustrialization in France. In this interview, discover the key milestones and strategic vision shaping this transformative initiative : 

 A Career Dedicated to the Photovoltaic Industry

Liu Yong has built his career in technical and industrial leadership roles with major players in the photovoltaic sector, including Wacker, SMIC, JA Solar, and Longi. In 2018, he founded DAS Solar, which has since become the 8th largest global supplier of photovoltaic modules, boasting an annual production capacity exceeding 30 GW.

Under his leadership, more than 100 GW of industrial capacity has been successfully commissioned, demonstrating his significant impact on the sector.

France: A Strategic Choice for Europe

Europe, DAS Solar's largest export market, is a key focus for the company's global strategy. In line with Europe's political push for industrial relocation, DAS Solar has committed to establishing local manufacturing in France.

The recent acquisition of the former Faurecia site in Mandeure, Doubs (near Montbéliard), underscores this strategy. This location offers several advantages:

• A ready-to-use industrial site;
• Local technical expertise aligned with solar industry requirements;
• A strong industrial culture in the region;
• A strategic location at the heart of Western Europe.

A Two-Phase Project: Modules First, Then Cells

In the first phase, DAS Solar will focus on photovoltaic module production, set to begin in the third quarter of 2025. Leveraging proven technologies and expertise from its operations in China, the site transformation is expected to proceed efficiently.

Simultaneously, DAS Solar is actively scouting for a location to establish its photovoltaic cell manufacturing lines. This step poses greater challenges due to the regulatory requirements involved in converting wafers into cells. Liu Yong anticipates cell production to commence by late 2026.

While the eventual integration of ingot and wafer production is under consideration, it is not an immediate priority. Liu Yong favors a gradual, pragmatic development of the industrial value chain, starting with modules and progressively moving upstream.

Building a Local Photovoltaic Ecosystem

DAS Solar is also working to unite other industry players to locally produce key components of the Bill of Materials (BOM), such as EVA/POE, backsheets, junction boxes, cables, and connectors. However, the production of glass is not part of the current plan: as Liu Yong puts it, "Glass is a whole different challenge."

The aim is to create a fully integrated photovoltaic ecosystem in Europe by 2027, with a target capacity of 5 GW. This will allow DAS Solar to further develop and scale the results of local R&D, which will be conducted in collaboration with local research laboratories.

A Long-Term Partnership

SYNAPSUN and DAS Solar have been partners for two years. Our collaboration goes way back, particularly with their CTO, Dr. Song, who was also the CTO when the SYNAPSUN founding team was working at Yingli a decade ago. Together, we were involved in the first large-scale rollout of N-Type technology (Panda).

To learn more about DAS Solar

Product portfolio, technical datasheets, installation manuals, certifications : Click Here 

Video showcasing DAS Solar factories : Click Here