AUO is pivoting to international markets as Taiwan’s solar installation volume experiences a sharp decline, with this year’s total dropping to 1.6-1.7 GW, down from 2.3-2.5 GW in 2022. TY Lin, Vice President of AUO’s Energy Business, expressed concern about the stagnant domestic market, noting the challenges ahead for next year.
To counter these difficulties, AUO is focusing on an “overseas plan,” with niche, high-value solar products being tested abroad. The company has already started shipping lightweight and flexible solar panels to Europe and is collaborating with partners in the U.S. to build integrated photovoltaic corrugated panels. Additionally, AUO is in discussions with American customers for smart electric boxes and arc protection solutions, capitalizing on the higher U.S. electricity rates and greater willingness to invest in rooftop solar installations.
Although AUO’s solar energy investments remain focused on Taiwan through its subsidiary Shining Energy, the company is exploring the potential for future overseas investments. With strong sales in markets like the U.S., Germany, and China, AUO expects better margins in international markets, where energy construction costs and acceptance of solar solutions are higher than in Taiwan.
