She said sales of solar rooftops in the residential market would be part of the company's business expansion this year from public offices and provincial areas.

The company expects fourth-quarter solar-rooftops sales of Bt100 million to Bt150 million for 100 houses. It estimates its total solar-rooftop sales will reach Bt500 million next year, accounting for 30 per cent of its total sales, which are set to grow 10 per cent to Bt1.43 billion next year.

Solartron Plc announced total sales of Bt1.34 billion and a net profit of Bt137.36 million for last year, and total revenues of Bt703.16 million and a net profit of Bt71.41 million in the first half of this year.

Wandee said that after energy-cost increases following oil-price rises, house-owners wanted to use alternative energy, especially solar cells, which would save 50 per cent of energy costs for an average home. "Electricity costs increase an average of 10 per cent a year," she said.

The cost of a solar rooftop starts at Bt250,000 for 1 kilowatt - enough for a small house.

Solatron has set up a pilot project using 50 solar rooftop units to promote the system for the residential market.

"A customer who sets up a solar rooftop at home will reduce electricity bills and cover the investment in eight to 10 years. A solar-rooftop system has a guarantee for up to 25 years," she said.

"We believe solar cells will be an alternative-energy source for residential areas following cost of living increases," said Wandee.

She said solar-cell prices had the potential to fall 20-30 per cent next year, after the company spent Bt1.2 billion to produce raw material for solar modules.

Of that, 35 per cent was raised from the Stock Exchange of Thailand from last year and the remainder from bank loans.

Somluck Srimalee

The Nation