Posts Tagged ‘High Purity silica’
INTERVIEW: $HPQ.ca Discusses $ 5.25M Financing + PUREVAP™ Process Update
$HPQ.ca Secures $ 5,250,000 in Financing; the #PUREVAP™ Process is the Green Solution for the #Solar Industry
- Announced the participation of the Quebec government, via its “Créativité Québec†program, and PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (“PyroGenesisâ€) in financings totalling $ 5,250,000
- These financing, subject to certain conditions, will be earmarked toward the completion of the “Gen 3 PUREVAP™â€ pilot equipment project announced in August 2016
MONTREAL, Aug. 13, 2018 – HPQ Silicon Resources Inc (“HPQâ€) (TSX VENTURE:HPQ) (FRANKFURT:UGE) (OTC PINK:URAGF) is pleased to announce the participation of the Quebec government, via its “Créativité Québec†program, and PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (“PyroGenesisâ€) in financings totalling $ 5,250,000. These financing, subject to certain conditions, will be earmarked toward the completion of the “Gen 3 PUREVAP™â€ pilot equipment project announced in August 2016.
AN INNOVATIVE METALLURGICAL PROCESS DEVELOPED 100% IN QUEBEC
Since 2015, HPQ has invested, in Quebec, more than $ 5,500,000 towards the development, in partnership with PyroGenesis, of the PUREVAP™Â « Quartz Reduction Reactor » (“QRRâ€), an innovative and leading-edge metallurgical process that allows both the transformation and purification of quartz (SiO2) into high purity silicon metal (Si), in one step.   The process will allow a reduction, by a factor of at least two-third (2/3), of the steps presently required to transform quartz (SiO2) into Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si), the central ingredient in the transformation of the sun’s energy into electricity in photovoltaïques solar panels.
Thanks to theses new financings, dedicated to the project, HPQ, in collaboration with its technical partners, will now be able to dedicate its efforts and energies toward the fulfilment of the ambitious operational goals of the program, which are the commercial validation of the PUREVAP™Â QRR process and the production of Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si).
MAKING QUEBEC THE LEADER IN THE PRODUCTION OF GREEN SOLAR SILICON METAL
The PUREVAP™Â QRR capability of reducing by 96%1 the carbon footprint associated with the greenhouse gas (GHG) emanating from the production of solar grade silicon metal (SoG Si) presents HPQ with the unique opportunity of being able to resolve the biggest paradox of the solar energy: “It’s not because photovoltaïques solar panels do not emit CO2 (GHG) while producing electricity that solar energy is not a significant source of GHG.â€2
Rather, seventy percent (70%) of the GHG generated when building a new solar farm3 comes from the production of the Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si) needed for the fabrication of the solar panels. Manufacturing SoG Si in China, the world largest producer, generates an astounding 141 kg of CO2 per Kg of SoG Si produced. In Germany, that ratio is reduced to 87.7 kg CO2 per Kg of SoG Si produced.  Using the PUREVAP™Â QRR process in Quebec should only produce 5.4 kg CO2 per Kg de SoG Si produced.1
Using the Hydro-Quebec stated goal of building a new 100 MW solar farm in the province as benchmark, it is easy to demonstrate that if the solar cells needed to build the solar farm are produced in China, it would represent an import of 56,540 tonnes of GHG (CO2) for the Province of Quebec. If the solar cells are produced in Germany, it would represent an import of 35,090 tonnes of CO2 for the Province. However, if the solar cells needed for Hydro-Quebec were produced in Quebec using the PUREVAP™Â QRR process, only 2,154 tonnes of CO2 would be produced. 1
Using an SoG Si produced with the PUREVAP™Â QRR process, in Québec, would reduce the CO2 Carbon Footprint of the Hydro-Quebec solar project by 54,336 tonnes, compared to using an SoG Si produced in China, which is the equivalent amount of GHG produced by 11,635 cars operating during one year4.
$5,250,000 FINANCING SALIENT POINTS
The Quebec government, through its “Créativité Québec†program, will be participating, via Investissement Québec (IQ), with a subscription of $1,800,000 in an unsecured Convertible Debenture. The disbursement of this financial aid is subject to certain conditions.
The Convertible Debenture has a 5-year (60 months) term, bearing interest at a rate of 5% per annum, and the interest payment can be accrued, at the Company’s option, up to the term of the Debenture. IQ will have the right, at anytime, to convert the Debenture into common shares of HPQ at a price of $0.12 per share. HPQ will be allowed to proceed with an early repayment of the Debenture, capital and accrued interest, 36 months after the issuance of the debenture, subject to the payment to IQ by HPQ of a redemption premium equal to a compounded annual return of 20% on the capital of the Debenture.  Finally, HPQ will be issuing to IQ 15,000,000 Warrants, each Warrant entitling IQ to purchase one common share of the capital stock of HPQ at an exercise price of $ 0.17, for a period of 36 months from the close. IQ may also, at the date of the conversion of the capital into shares, convert the accrued interest payable in shares of HPQ, subject to the approval of the TSX-Venture and the conversion price for the payment of the accrued interest will be established in accordance with the policies of the TSX-Venture (TSX.V).
PyroGenesis, for its part, has closed a private placement in HPQ of 16,250,000 units (“Unit”) at $0.12 per Unit for a gross proceeds of up to $1,950,000. Each Unit is comprised of one (1) common share and one (1) common share purchase warrant (“Warrant”) of the Company. Each Warrant will entitle Pyrogenesis to purchase one common share of the capital stock of the Company at an exercise price of $ 0.17 for a period of 36 months from the date of closing of the placement. Each share issued pursuant to the placement will have a mandatory four (4) month and one (1) day holding period from the date of closing of the placement.
Upon approval from the TSX venture exchange (TSX-V), PyroGenesis will grant HPQ an Equity Line of credit of $ 1,500,000. The equity line of credit can only be used to cover un-expected project cost overruns that could potentially occur after then end of planned test period in 2019 until December 31, 2020.
To be acceptable under the terms of the Equity Line of Credit, Cost Overruns shall be considered as such by both Parties and approved before they are incurred. Upon approval, HPQ must send a written thirty days (30) notice of it’s intent to drawdown the Equity Line of Credit to pay for the Cost Overruns. Once the approved work is completed, PyroGenesis shall remit to HPQ an invoice covering the completed work and HPQ will organize the payment of the invoice by mean of issuance of common shares of its capital stock, as prescribed by TSX Venture Exchange policies, for a number of shares totalling the amount of the applicable invoice at an issuance price equal to the share quote on the invoice date, less a ten percent (10%) discount.
HPQ has already received conditional approval from the TSX Venture exchange (TSX-V) for the issuance of the $1,800,000 Convertible Debenture and associated warrants and for the $Â 1,950,000 private placement. Only the Equity Line of Credit requires the approval of the TSX Venture exchange (TSX-V).
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman and CEO of HPQ Silicon stated “Closing these financings, with both the Quebec Government and PyroGenesis taking such active participation in our Company, is a key moment for HPQ. This is another external demonstration that our PUREVAP™Â QRR process, emanating from our strong and mutually beneficial relationship with PyroGenesis, has all the earmarks to become a transformative project. We are very happy to have received such a strong vote of confidence and believe that everything is (oops!) falling into place to make our project a great success.â€
This Press Release Is Available On The Company’s CEO Verified Discussion Forum, A Moderated Social Media Platform That Enables Civilized Discussion and Q&A Between Management and Shareholders.   https://agoracom.com/ir/HPQ-SiliconResources/forums/discussion
About HPQ Silicon
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. is a TSX-V listed resource company planning to become a vertically integrated and diversified High Purity, Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si) producer and a manufacturer of multi and monocrystalline solar cells of the P and N types, required for production of high performance photovoltaic conversion.
HPQ goal is to develop, in collaboration with industry leaders that are experts in their fields of interest, the innovative metallurgical PUREVAP™Â “Quartz Reduction Reactors (QRR)†process (patent pending), which will permit the transformation and purification of quartz (SiO2) into high purity silicon metal (Si) in one step and reduce by a factor of at least two-third (2/3) the steps required to transform quartz (SiO2) into SoG Si. The pilot plant equipment that will validate the commercial potential of the process is on schedule for an end 2018 start.
Disclaimers:
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s on-going filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For further information contact
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman, President and CEO Tel (514) 907-1011
Patrick Levasseur, COO Tel: (514) 262-9239
www.HPQSilicon.com
Shares outstanding: 202Â 665Â 807
Gen2 PUREVAP Tests Restarting, Early Warrant Exercise Program Results $HPQ.ca $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $PYR.ca $XMG.ca
- Completed a scheduled audit of the Gen2 PUREVAP™ equipment for wear and tear following the first 14 tests of our ongoing Commercial Scalability Proof of Concept testing program
- Audit helped identify critical operational parameters for the Gen3 PUREVAP™ pilot equipment and allowed the evaluation of additional design modifications that could be implemented for further tests using the Gen2 PUREVAP™
MONTREAL, July 19, 2018 – HPQ Silicon Resources Inc (“HPQâ€) (TSX Venture:HPQ) is pleased to notify shareholders that PyroGenesis Canada Inc (“PyroGenesisâ€) (TSX Venture: PYR) has completed a scheduled audit of the Gen2 PUREVAP™ equipment for wear and tear following the first 14 tests of our ongoing Commercial Scalability Proof of Concept testing program. The audit helped identify critical operational parameters for the Gen3 PUREVAP™ pilot equipment and allowed the evaluation of additional design modifications that could be implemented for further tests using the Gen2 PUREVAP™.
Gen2 PUREVAP™ TESTING RESTARTING
The Gen2 PUREVAP™ equipment having been refurbished, re-assembled and incorporating the latest design modifications, is now ready to start a new series of at least 8 additional tests focused on:
- Increasing the Yield1 and the Production Yield2 of the Gen2 PUREVAP™ above test #14 results;
- Testing the Purity of the Si produced using ICP-OES3 from both our low purity feed stock (98.84% SiO2) and specifically sourced ultra high purity feed stock (> 99.9% SiO2);
- Finding the optimum operation conditions for the Gen2 PUREVAP™ and gaining information about future Gen3 PUREVAP™ operation.
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman and CEO of HPQ Silicon stated, “Our Gen2 PUREVAP™ testing program has successfully pushed the project from the lab to a semi-industrial scale. We have leaned a lot and our data driven, empirical and methodical approach is de-risking our project as we move toward demonstrating to industry participants the commercial scalability of our PUREVAP™ QRR process and its unique capacity of converting quartz into Si, while simultaneously increasing its purity toward the purity required for the solar industry. Our objective for 2018 continues to be building on our technical successes as we get ready to commence the Gen3 PUREVAP™ Pilot Equipment phase with our “Solar Silicon Team†of Pyrogenesis and Apollon Solar, as well as, building market awareness of our progress and plans.â€
EARLY WARRANT EXERCISE INCENTIVE RESULTS
On June 13, 2018, HPQ announced its intention to implement a warrant exercise incentive program between June 18, 2018 and July 17, 2018 in order to encourage the early exercise of up to 6,674,600 out of the 12,305,000 of its outstanding unlisted 7 cents warrants. At the close of the period the Corporation is happy to announce that 4,152,000 (62%) of the eligible outstanding unlisted 7 cents warrants were exercised and that the Corporation received $290,640 in gross proceeds. The 2,522,6000 eligible warrants that were not exercised during the early exercise period remain outstanding and continue to be exercisable for shares of the company on their current terms.
As a result of the early exercise program, the company will be issuing 4,152,000 share purchase warrants entitling the holder to purchase one additional share of HPQ for a period of 18 months from the date of issuance at a price of 17 cents, subject to a four-month hold period from the date of issuance. The warrants issued under the incentive program are subject to the receipt of all regulatory approvals, including the final approval of the TSX-V.
HPQ CHAIRMAN AND CEO INCREASED HIS HOLDING IN HPQ SILICON
Bernard Tourillon, HPQ Chairman and CEO used the early warrants exercised to invest $50,050 in HPQ and increase his holding by 715,000 shares and 665,000 share purchase warrants, entitling the purchase one additional share of HPQ for a period of 18 months from the date of issuance at a price of 17 cents in accordance with the incentive warrant exercise program.
Pierre Carabin, Eng., M. Eng., has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release.
This Press Release Is Available On The Company’s CEO Verified Discussion Forum, A Moderated Social Media Platform That Enables Civilized Discussion and Q&A Between Management and Shareholders. https://agoracom.com/ir/HPQ-SiliconResources/forums/discussion
About HPQ Silicon
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. is a TSX-V listed resource company planning to become a vertically integrated and diversified High Purity, Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si) producer and a manufacturer of multi and monocrystalline solar cells of the P and N types, required for production of high performance photovoltaic conversion.
HPQ goal is to develop, in collaboration with industry leaders that are experts in their fields of interest, the innovative metallurgical PUREVAPTM “Quartz Reduction Reactors (QRR)†process (patent pending), which will permit production of the highest efficiency SoG Si. The pilot plant equipment that will validate the commercial potential of the process is on schedule for 2018.
Disclaimers:
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s on-going filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Shares outstanding: 202,665,807
For further information contact
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman and CEO Tel (514) 907-1011
Patrick Levasseur, President and COO Tel: (514) 262-9239
www.HPQSilicon.com
Clean Energy Revolution Needs Clean Solar Panels $HPQ.ca
Solar energy is a clean alternative to fossil fuels; however, making the panels themselves comes with an environmental price tag.
- Solar power is the fastest-growing source of that new renewable energy.
- According to a report published by research firm Zion Market Research, the global solar panel market accounted for US$30.8 billion in 2016
- Expected to reach US$57.3 billion by 2022, growing at a CAGR of 10.9 percent.
The Clean Energy Revolution is all about sustainability from cradle to grave.Â
Both investors and consumers in this space want the manufacturing process for clean-energy products to have as small an environmental footprint as possible. Otherwise the movement away from fossil fuels will not lead us to a truly low-carbon economy.
Renewable forms of energy such as solar are key to that transition. In 2017, new renewable-energy-generating capacity surpassed that of net new fossil fuel capacity. “We are at a turning point … from fossil fuels to the renewable world,†Erik Solheim, head of UN Environment, told Reuters. “The markets are there and renewables can take on coal, they can take on oil and gas.â€
This INNspired Article is brought to you by:
HPQ Silicon (TSXV:HPQ) is a technology and resource company working towards becoming a vertically integrated producer of high-purity, solar-grade silicon metal.Send me an Investor Kit
Solar power is the fastest-growing source of that new renewable energy. According to a report published by research firm Zion Market Research, the global solar panel market accounted for US$30.8 billion in 2016 and is expected to reach US$57.3 billion by 2022, growing at a CAGR of 10.9 percent.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) believes solar will dominate future growth in the renewable energy sector, with global capacity in five years’ time expected to be greater than the current combined total power capacity of India and Japan, reports the Guardian. “What we are witnessing is the birth of a new era in solar photovoltaics (PV). We expect that solar PV capacity growth will be higher than any other renewable technology up to 2022,†said Dr. Fatih Birol, IEA executive director.
That increased solar capacity will require more solar panels, and that means more silicon, the material responsible for converting solar energy into electricity.
Silicon is the solar energy metal
Silicon, an excellent semiconductor, is essential in the fabrication of solar panels. Unlike other metals, its conductivity improves as temperatures increase — making it ideally suited for solar-energy generation.
Yes, solar panels do not emit greenhouse gases when they are generating electricity; however, the conventional process for producing solar-grade silicon, or polysilicon, uses harsh chemicals and requires a lot of energy.
Environmental cost of conventional silicon production
According to a 2014 National Geographic report, the entire process results in the emission of greenhouse gases and the production of toxic chemicals. “The dirty little secret about solar panels is that while solar energy as a concept is green because you can generate electricity without generating pollution, you create a lot of pollution during the manufacturing of those solar cells,†Bernard Tourillon, CEO of HPQ Silicon (TSXV:HPQ), told INN. HPQ Silicon owns a portfolio of high-grade quartz properties in Quebec, and with PyroGenesis Canada (TSXV:PYR) is developing a new carbothermic process that has the capability to convert quartz into solar-grade silicon metal in just one step.
Although silicon is one of the most abundant elements on earth, it doesn’t occur freely but rather is found in compound form with oxygen as silicon dioxide (SiO2) or silica. Quartz is the most common form of silica. The conventional process for producing pure silicon from quartz and further refining it for use in solar panels requires a lot of energy and the use of caustic chemicals — leading to the emission of greenhouse gases and the production of the very toxic chemical silicon tetrachloride.
“Traditionally this is a very high-CAPEX smelter process that requires large-size plants and is extremely pollutive because to transform quartz into silicon metal by default you create carbon monoxide,†added Tourillon.
Silicon has a melting point of 1,414° Celsius, nearly that of iron. Freeing silicon from SiO2 requires passing quartz through a carbothermic process (basically adding carbon through extremely high heat) in giant electric furnaces, which in turn requires a lot of energy, notes Fengqi You, assistant professor of engineering at Northwestern University and a co-author of a study on the subject conducted in partnership with Argonne National Laboratory.
Further increasing the carbon footprint of solar-panel manufacturing, coal is often the source of energy used to heat the furnaces, especially in China where the majority of the world’s polysilicon and solar panels are produced. Hence, as the Economist points out, “when a new solar panel is put to work it starts with a ‘carbon debt’ that, from a greenhouse-gas-saving point of view, has to be paid back before that panel becomes part of the solution, rather than part of the problem.â€
Nearly all of the silicon used in today’s solar panels comes from the refining of metallurgical-grade silicon using a chemical purification method known as the Siemens process, which involves the use of caustic chemicals, including sodium hydroxide and hydrofluoric acid. This process produces waste in the form of highly toxic silicon tetrachloride.
While most manufacturers recycle this waste to produce more silicon, the reprocessing equipment can carry a hefty price tag — in the range of tens of millions of dollars — leading some companies to dump the waste. Once silicon tetrachloride comes into contact with water it releases hydrochloric acid, which acidifies the surrounding soil and emits toxic fumes.
In an effort to crack down on illegal dumping of toxic waste produced by polysilicon manufacturers, environmental regulators in China shut down operations at several offending factories in 2017. The move sent prices of polysilicon soaring on shortages and spiked production costs for solar panel manufacturers.
Clearly, without sustainably produced silicon, solar panels are not a genuine clean-energy alternative to fossil fuels.
Game-changing technology
A potential solution to this challenge may come in the form of the fourth state of matter: plasma.
Plasma is a charged gas capable of strong, electrostatic interactions, making it a great conductor of electricity. Plasma’s semiconductive property is why in 2015, HPQ Silicon approached PyroGenesis, one of the largest concentrations of plasma expertise in the world, and inquired about the possibility of using its plasma-based knowhow to transform quartz into solar-grade silicon metal.
PyroGenesis has successfully developed plasma-based systems for the US Navy, including technology that destroys chemicals-based weapons, and has invented a plasma-based process for producing power for 3D printing that is now used internationally.
The resulting cooperation between HPQ Silicon and PyroGenesis led to the development of the PUREVAP™ Quartz Reduction Reactors process, a new carbothermic process that has the capability to convert quartz into solar-grade silicon metal.
In less than 18 months, the PUREVAP™ QRR process has demonstrated the possibility of converting quartz into solar-grade silicon metal at commercial scale in one step.
“Plasma is a very exciting area of technology. Our PUREVAP™ metallurgical process harnesses the advantages of plasma to commercially produce solar-grade silicon directly from quartz,†Peter Pascali, president and CEO of PyroGenesis, told INN. “If you can conduct that transformation in one step using a clean technology like plasma then without a doubt there are significant environmental benefits from that.â€
A third-party revenue analysis of the process, conducted by private France-based Apollon Solar, found that at the commercial scale, the PUREVAP™ process could lead to the production of solar-grade silicon at a significantly lower cost compared to conventional processes.
PyroGenesis’ recent GEN2 testing results have validated the commercial scalability of the PUREVAP™ process. “The results we have achieved recently with the GEN2 PUREVAP™ give us increased confidence and assurance that at pilot scale, we will be able to reach significant higher production yields of the high-purity silicon metal that we are targeting,†said Pierre Carabin, PyroGenesis’ chief technology officer.
HPQ Silicon owns the PUREVAP™ technology as it relates to the transformation of quartz to silicon through a binding agreement with PyroGenesis. HPQ Silicon provides the strategic direction, marketing and funding for the project for a 90-percent interest.
HPQ Silicon, PyroGenesis and Apollon Solar are working together to conduct the GEN3 Pilot Plant phase, now in the planning stages, to further validate the commercial scalability of the PUREVAP™ process.
The takeaway
There are of course other factors that contribute to the carbon footprint of solar energy outside of how silicon is produced; for example, in the fabrication of the solar panels themselves. But solving this one challenge may still be a huge step forward for the solar industry and could bring the world closer to a more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable future.
This INNspired article is sponsored by HPQ Silicon (TSXV:HPQ). This article was written according to INN editorial standards to educate investors.
Source: https://investingnews.com/innspired/environmental-impacts-of-solar-panels-manufacturing-threaten-the-clean-energy-revolution/?mqsc=E3953446
Global #Solar PV Installations to Surpass 104GW in 2018 $HPQ.ca $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $NEP
- Global Solar PV Installations to Surpass 104GW in 2018
- GlobalsolarPV market will add over 100 gigawatts of capacity for the first time in 2018 — and there is no looking back.
Key findings from GTM Research’s latest Global Solar Demand Monitor.
According to the latest Global Solar Demand Monitor from GTM Research, installations will reach 104 gigawatts this year, representing 6 percent annual growth. After that, annual installations will easily exceed the 100-gigawatt milestone through at least 2022.
The year-over-year growth is due in part to geographic diversification, as the top four markets are anticipated to collectively decline by 7 percent.
Source: Global Solar Demand Monitor, Q1 2018
Installations in China will fall from 53 gigawatts in 2017 to 48 gigawatts in 2018, although China alone will account for 47 percent of global demand this year.
For the first time in China’s history, annual distributed solar installations (<20 megawatts) are expected to surpass 50 percent of the nation’s annual installed capacity.
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“Trade-restrictive measures continue to be a barrier to growth in the U.S. and India,” said GTM Research solar analyst Rishab Shrestha. “Although the availability of tariff-free modules in the U.S. and the announcement that compensation will be provided to Indian developers negatively impacted by tariffs and duties provides some encouragement.” According to the report, the U.S. market is expected to add 10.6 gigawatts of solar PV in 2018 while India will install 7.1 gigawatts.
In 2018, Latin America will add 5.6 gigawatts and the MENA region (Middle East and Africa) will add 4.7 gigawatts, representing explosive year-over-year growth of 61 percent and 281 percent, respectively. Up to 1 gigawatt of projects awarded through Mexico’s A1 auction are expected to come online this year, as is Egypt’s 1.8-gigawatt Benban solar park. These two markets will top their respective regions in 2018.
According to the analysis, Egypt and Brazil will become gigawatt-scale markets for the first time in 2018. This year will also see the re-emergence Spain. Meanwhile, France, which will firmly establish itself as one of Europe’s top three largest markets.
Number of Gigawatt-Scale Solar Markets by Year
Source: Global Solar Demand Monitor, Q1 2018
Source: https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/global-solar-pv-installations-to-surpass-104-gw-in-2018#gs.7nb29HI
INTERVIEW: $HPQ.ca Discusses 1,900 % Increase In Total Mass Of Silicon Metal Produced By Gen2 PUREVAP
HPQ Silicon $HPQ.ca Reports 1,900 % Increase In Total Mass Of Silicon Metal Produced By Gen2 PUREVAP Versus Baseline Gen1 Result $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $NEP
- 1,900 % Increase In Total Mass Of Silicon Metal Produced By Gen2 PUREVAP Versus Baseline Gen1 Result
- Total mass of Si produced during Gen2 test #007 was 28.1 grams; 20 times greater than the baseline Gen1 test #63 result of 1.4 grams and 1.4 times greater than Gen2 test # 003 result of 19.9 grams1;
MONTREAL, QUEBEC–(Feb. 15, 2018) – HPQ Silicon Resources Inc (“HPQ”) (TSX VENTURE:HPQ)(FRANKFURT:UGE)(OTC PINK:URAGF) is pleased to inform shareholders that PyroGenesis Canada Inc (PyroGenesis) has submitted an updated progress report on the ongoing Gen2 PUREVAPTM Quartz Reduction Reactor (“QRR”) test work. The Gen2 PUREVAP™ process improvements and design modifications continue to produce very encouraging results.
GEN2 AN INVALUABLE BENCH TEST PLATFORM TO COMMERCIAL SCALABILITY OF PUREVAP™ QRR
Increasing yield (Si quantity) and Production Yield of Gen2 PUREVAP™ are key objectives of the ongoing program. The results include the latest tests completed, which attained the following key milestones:
- Total mass of Si produced during Gen2 test #007 was 28.1 grams; 20 times greater than the baseline Gen1 test #63 result of 1.4 grams and 1.4 times greater than Gen2 test # 003 result of 19.9 grams1;
- Gen2 test #007 28.1 grams is the highest quantity of Si produced to date: 3.2 times greater than the best results of 8.8 grams from Gen1 test #322;
- Gen2 test #007 achieved a Production Yield3 of 13.4%, the highest to date: ten times greater than baseline Gen1 test #63 Production Yield of 1.3% and 1.8 times greater than Gen2 test # 003 Production Yield of 7.4%;
PRODUCTION YIELD A KEY CONTRIBUTING FACTOR THE FINAL PURITY
Gen1 testing confirmed the key relationship between production yield and purity (November 1 2017 release) and from these results and ongoing tests PyroGenesis extrapolated as follows:
- These results support the expectation that under a semi-continuous PUREVAPTM process, assuming standard production yield of 90%, it would be possible to transform Quartz (SiO2) into Silicon Metal (Si) with purity levels acceptable to the solar industry (4N+ or 99.998% Si)(4);
- The positive correlation between production yield, purity, and PUREVAPTM QRR reactor size is optimized with a 50 Tonne per year reactor;
- The Gen2 PUREVAP™ reactor capacity has limited achievable production yield at 15% (± 3%).
IMPLEMENTING ADDITIONAL METHODS TO INCREASE PURITY BECOMES KEY FOCUS
With the Gen2 reactor now operating within the 90th percentile of its achievable production yield, test work in the current phase will concentrate on establishing a repeatable process at maximum yield prior to moving on to implementing and testing additional pathways to increase the final purity of the Si produced.
Purity of Gen 2 test #007 material was analyzed at (CM)2 (École Polytechnique de Montréal) using the SEM-EDS method(5) and result confirmed, as expected, the production of 99.9+% pure Si, using low purity feedstock, 98.84% SiO2.
Subsequent Si produced will be sent to outside laboratories for bulk purity analysis using ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry). In this area, the expertise of Apollon Solar will be a great advantage given their long track record of conducting these types of tests for material very similar to the one currently being produced by the Company.
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman and CEO of HPQ Silicon stated, “Our methodical approach is yielding exciting results and the Gen2 is proving to be an invaluable bench test platform for testing new design and process improvements prior to the final design and assembly of the pilot plant equipment later this year. Our objective for 2018 continue to be building on our technical successes as we get ready to commence the Pilot Plant phase with our ‘Solar Silicon Team’ of Pyrogenesis and Apollon Solar, as well as, building market awareness of our progress and plans. With every successful milestone, we are de-risking our project, while our ongoing tests are providing valuable information to implement the adjustments needed to produce the Solar Grade Silicon Metal necessary for the manufacture of multi and monocrystalline solar cells for high performance photovoltaic conversion.”
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/1107173_HPQ_L.jpg
KEY MILESTONES MOVING FORWARD
Milestones of the GEN2 PUREVAP™ program in 2018 are:
- Tapping Silicon Metal from the Gen 2 PUREVAP™;
- Increasing Production Yield of Gen 2 PUREVAP™ over multiple test cycles from high grade feedstock;
- Testing the Purity of the Si produced and implementing additional methods to increase the final purity of the Si produced;
- Testing electrical parameters of the High Purity Si;
- Provide additional data to calculate the economics of PUREVAP™ QRR.
- Adapt the methods and processes developed in GEN2 PUREVAPTM to the final design and assembly of the Pilot Plant equipment.
Pierre Carabin, Eng., M. Eng., has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release.
This Press Release Is Available On The Company’s CEO Verified Discussion Forum, A Moderated Social Media Platform That Enables Civilized Discussion and Q&A Between Management and Shareholders.
https://agoracom.com/ir/HPQ-SiliconResources/forums/discussion
La version française du communiqué de presse est disponible sur http://www.hpqsilicon.com
About HPQ Silicon
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. is a TSX-V listed resource company planning to become a vertically integrated and diversified High Purity, Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si) producer and a manufacturer of multi and monocrystalline solar cells of the P and N types, required for production of high performance photovoltaic conversion.
HPQ goal is to develop, in collaboration with industry leaders that are experts in their fields of interest, the innovative metallurgical PUREVAP™ “Quartz Reduction Reactors (QRR)” process (patent pending), which will permit production of the highest efficiency SoG Si. The pilot plant equipment that will validate the commercial potential of the process is on schedule for 2018.
Disclaimers:
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s on-going filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
(1) Evaluating the progression of the Gen2 PUREVAP™ reactor requires a baseline Gen1 result and similar testing conditions for the Gen 2 tests.
(2) Since the tests were done under different reactor operating conditions, the results are nice to know, but not material for the program
(3) Production Yield is the conversion efficiency of Quartz into Silicon Metal of the process
(4)Â Pyrogenesis Canada Inc. Technical Memo: “TM-2017-830 REV 00, – Final Report-Silicon Metal Purity Enhancement”
(5) Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy Detection limit 1000 ppm, a 100% Si = Purity of 3N+ (99.9+%)
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.
Bernard J. Tourillon
Chairman and CEO
(514) 907-1011
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.
Patrick Levasseur
President and COO
(514) 262-9239
www.HPQSilicon.com
INTERVIEW: HPQ Silicon Resources $HPQ.ca Discusses Significant Gen 2 PURVAP Milestones / Achieving Significantly Higher Production Yield $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $NEP $PYR.ca
PyroGenesis $PYR.ca Submits Gen 2 PUREVAP™ Progress Report to HPQ Silicon Resources $HPQ.ca Inc.; Confirms Higher Yield and Rate
- Gen 2 PUREVAP can operate semi-continuously as designed and under vacuum
- Gen 2 PUREVAP provides a higher production yield and rate
- 5.7 times more yield and 23 times more product
PyroGenesis Canada Inc. (http://pyrogenesis.com) (TSX-V:PYR) (OTCQB:PYRNF), a high-tech company (the “Company†or “PyroGenesisâ€) that designs, develops, manufactures and commercializes plasma waste-to-energy systems and plasma torch products, is pleased to announce today that it has submitted to its client, HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. (“HPQâ€), a report entitled “Project Progress on GEN 2 PUREVAPâ€.
This report gives a summary of the first five (5) tests on the Gen 2 PUREVAP tests. The main results of these initial tests are:
- The Gen 2 PUREVAP can operate semi-continuously as designed and under vacuum. To our knowledge, this is the first time that this has ever been achieved.
- The Gen 2 PUREVAP provides a higher production yield and rate (5.7 times more yield and 23 times more product).
- The heat efficiency of the GEN2 is much better than GEN1. GEN2 achieves higher temperatures (i.e. more heat goes towards the process rather than being lost to various system components) and which allows for higher rate silicon production reactions and higher product purity.
“These initial Gen 2 results confirm the hypothesis we formulated when we initially designed this new reactor for higher yield and better performance. The results also provide confirmation of our design parameters for the upcoming pilot phase of the project,†said Pierre Carabin, CTO of PyroGenesis. “The next step will be to continue increasing the amount of material produced with the goal of being able to extract liquid metal directly from the reactor in operation.â€
PyroGenesis has been engaged by HPQ to demonstrate, on a laboratory scale, that the PUREVAP™ process can produce high purity silicon metal from quartz in a one step process. Pursuant to a Can$8.3 MM contract signed with HPQ in August 2016, PyroGenesis is designing, fabricating, assembling, commissioning and testing a PUREVAP™ pilot system to produce silicon metal directly from quartz. The aim of the Gen 2 PUREVAP™ metallurgical testing program is to confirm previous findings, and to allow for downstream product testing as final steps are being put in place to assemble the Pilot Plant.
About PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
PyroGenesis Canada Inc. is the world leader in the design, development, manufacture and commercialization of advanced plasma processes. PyroGenesis provides technical and manufacturing expertise, cutting-edge contract research, as well as turnkey process equipment packages to the defense, metallurgical, mining, additive manufacturing (3D printing), oil & gas, and environmental industries. With a team of experienced engineers, scientists and technicians working out of our Montreal office and 3,800 m2 manufacturing facility, PyroGenesis maintains its competitive advantage by remaining at the forefront of technology development and commercialization. Its core competencies allow PyroGenesis to lead the way in providing innovative plasma torches, plasma waste processes, high-temperature metallurgical processes, and technical services to the global marketplace. Its operations are ISO 9001:2008 certified, and have been ISO certified since 1997. PyroGenesis is a publicly-traded Canadian corporation on the TSX Venture Exchange (Ticker Symbol:PYR) and on the OTCQB Marketplace (Ticker Symbol:PYRNF). For more information, please visit www.pyrogenesis.com
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Corporation’s current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Corporation with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Corporation’s ongoing filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com, or at www.otcmarkets.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) nor the OTC Markets Group Inc. accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
SOURCE PyroGenesis Canada Inc.
For further information: Rodayna Kafal, VP, Investor Relations and Communications, Phone: (514) 937-0002, E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
HPQ Silicon Resources $HPQ.ca Progress Report Confirms That GEN 2 PUREVAP™ Can Successfully Operate Under Vacuum In Semi-Continuous Feed Mode $FSLR $SPWR $CSIQ $NEP
- Submitted a first progress report on results from the Gen 2 PUREVAP™ Quartz Reduction Reactor test work
- Gen 2 PUREVAP™ reactor is operating as designed, and yielding results that are in line with expectations
- Extremely promising for the PUREVAP™ ongoing development as process improvements and design modifications continue to be implemented
MONTREAL, QUEBEC–(Jan. 15, 2018) – HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. (“HPQ”) (TSX VENTURE:HPQ)(FRANKFURT:UGE)(OTC PINK:URAGF) is pleased to inform shareholders that PyroGenesis Canada Inc (PyroGenesis) has submitted a first progress report on results from the Gen 2 PUREVAP™ Quartz Reduction Reactor (“QRR”) test work. The Gen 2 PUREVAP™ reactor is operating as designed, and yielding results that are in line with expectations. This is extremely promising for the PUREVAP™ ongoing development as process improvements and design modifications continue to be implemented.
GEN 2 PUREVAP(TM) in operation: Inside view of Reactor (Top)
GEN 2 PUREVAP(TM) in operation: Inside view of the Reactor, (Top-hole opened)
GEN 2 RESULTS START DEMONSTRATING COMMERCIAL SCALABILITY OF PUREVAP™ QRR
Key milestones to date:
- Gen 2 PUREVAP™ has operated in semi-continuous feed mode under vacuum, over ever increasing time intervals;
- Gen 2 PUREVAP™ completed 4 operating feed cycles, over 10-12 hours of operation;
- Gen 2 PUREVAP™ can reach and, more importantly, maintain, the temperature ranges required for optimum operational parameters;
- Gen 2 PUREVAP™ is achieving significantly higher production yield 5.7 times more (+469%) and production rate 23 times more (+2,259 %) compared to peak Gen 1 PUREVAP™ performance under similar testing conditions.
Very promising output results have also been attained:
- The largest individual sample of Si produced to date with the Gen 2 PUREVAP™ is 8.5 grams; 8 times more massive than the maximum produced with Gen 1 PUREVAP™;
- The total mass of Si produced during one Gen 2 PUREVAP™ test is 11.5 times greater than the average of the top 20 GEN 1 PUREVAP™ tests.
Bernard J. Tourillon, Chairman and CEO of HPQ Silicon stated, “Our methodical approach is producing exciting results as we successfully transition from a static lab scale under vacuum to a semi-continuous operating mode under vacuum, with enormous improvements in production. The market so far has not yet comprehended the scope of what has been accomplished, in the lab, and in our breakthrough agreement with Apollon Solar announced in December. Our objective in 2018 is to continue to build on our technical successes and commence the Pilot Plant phase with our ‘Solar Silicon Team’ of PyroGenesis and Apollon Solar, and to build market awareness. The addition of Apollon Solar to our technical team will allow further refinements to the silicon purification and testing of the numerous process improvements now planned for the Pilot Plant. We have started de-risking our project and our ongoing tests are providing valuable information as we continue to implement the adjustments needed to produce the Solar Grade Silicon Metal that will allow the manufacturing of multi and monocrystalline solar cells for high performance photovoltaic conversion.”
“We are pleased to join HPQ in announcing this significant milestone with respect to the scaling up of the PUREVAP™ process,” said P. Peter Pascali, President and CEO of PyroGenesis. “PyroGenesis has a track record of successfully taking new concepts from lab to commercialization. This is clearly demonstrated by our PAWDS waste destruction technology, which has been adopted by the US Navy, and more recently our proprietary Drosrite system, which has become a commercial phenomenon in its own right. We believe that simultaneously converting Quartz into High Purity Silicon Metal using a plasma arc within a vacuum furnace in a semi-continuous feeding mode is the beginning of another such success.”
KEY MILESTONES MOVING FORWARD
Milestones of the GEN 2 PUREVAP™ program in 2018 are:
- Tapping Silicon Metal from the Gen 2 PUREVAP™;
- Increasing production yield of Gen 2 PUREVAP™ over multiple test cycles from low grade feedstock;
- Increasing production yield of Gen 2 PUREVAP™ over multiple test cycles from high grade feedstock;
- Testing the Purity of the Si produced and implement additional methods to increase the final purity of the Si produced;
- Testing electrical parameters of the High Purity Si;
- Provide data to demonstrate the economics of PUREVAP™ QRR;
- Adapt the methods and processes developed in GEN 2 PUREVAP™ to the final design and assembly of the Pilot Plant equipment.
Pierre Carabin, Eng., M. Eng., has reviewed and approved the technical content of this press release.
This Press Release Is Available On The Company’s CEO Verified Discussion Forum, A Moderated Social Media Platform That Enables Civilized Discussion and Q&A Between Management and Shareholders. La version française du communiqué de presse est disponible sur http://www.hpqsilicon.com.
About HPQ Silicon
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc. is a TSX-V listed resource company planning to become a vertically integrated and diversified High Purity, Solar Grade Silicon Metal (SoG Si) producer and a manufacturer of multi and monocrystalline solar cells of the P and N types, required for production of high performance photovoltaic conversion.
HPQ goal is to develop, in collaboration with industry leaders that are experts in their fields of interest, the innovative metallurgical PUREVAP™ “Quartz Reduction Reactors (QRR)” process (patent pending), which will permit production of the highest efficiency SoG Si. The pilot plant equipment that will validate the commercial potential of the process is on schedule for 2018.
Disclaimers:
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words “may”, “plan”, “will”, “estimate”, “continue”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “expect”, “in the process” and other similar expressions which constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectation and assumptions, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding the acceptance of our products by the market, our strategy to develop new products and enhance the capabilities of existing products, our strategy with respect to research and development, the impact of competitive products and pricing, new product development, and uncertainties related to the regulatory approval process. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and other risks detailed from time-to-time in the Company’s on-going filings with the securities regulatory authorities, which filings can be found at www.sedar.com. Actual results, events, and performance may differ materially. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements either as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
To view the images accompanying this press release, please visit the following links:
http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/HPQ_Inside_Reactor(Top)_800.jpg
http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/HPQ_Inside_Reactor(Top-hole-opened)_800.jpg
http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/HPQ_Isolated_Si_comparison_samples_800.jpg
Shares outstanding: 191,979,173
Contact Information
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.
Bernard J. Tourillon
Chairman and CEO
(514) 907-1011
HPQ Silicon Resources Inc.
Patrick Levasseur
President and COO
(514) 262-9239
www.HPQSilicon.com