In a strategic deal encompassing polysilicon supply and possible downstream PV project collaboration, Qatar Solar Energy (QSE) has secured a long-term polysilicon supply with Kazakhstan state-owned industrial firm, Kazatomprom.

QSE, the first vertically integrated PV manufacturer in the MENA region, recently opened a 300MW PV module production plant in Qatar with future plans to expand operations to 2.5GW.

Industry sector sources familiar with the polysilicon supply agreement, told PV Tech that metallurgical-grade silicon producer, KazSilicon, a subsidiary of Kazatomprom, would be the supplier, although further refining was expected to be supplied by a third party.

Volume polysilicon supply shipments were said by sources to be set to start in 2016 at 500MT. The majority of PV manufacturers have supply agreements for polysilicon with several producers to ensure security of supply and competitive pricing.

Qatar is also home to a new polysilicon plant, owned by Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec), which was expected to have completed construction and start preliminary production last year. QSTec is a joint venture with SolarWorld.