Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PHOTON Consulting Silicon Price Index (PCSPI)?

The PHOTON Consulting Silicon Price Index (PCSPI) is a non-tradable, U.S. Dollar denominated market index designed to benchmark global spot and contract prices for high grade silicon (a/k/a “solar silicon”).

Who developed the Index and why?

PHOTON Consulting, a world-renowned solar energy research firm and consultancy, created the PHOTON Consulting Silicon Price Index (PCSPI) service in order to increase volume and price transparency for high grade silicon producers, consumers and traders.

How is the PCSPI constructed, weighted, calculated and maintained?

PHOTON Consulting’s data methodologies and indexing models are proprietary (a/k/a “black box”) and as such, details are not fully disclosed. PHOTON Consulting collects contract and spot pricing data from numerous sources including but not exclusive to silicon producers, consumers and traders under the auspices of information sharing agreements that include strict data and source confidentiality covenants. The collected data is then weighted to reflect the nuances found in the length of reported silicon contracts, prepayments and price digression at which point the output (a/k/a the Index) is generated, updated and published at 4pm EST on the 3rd Monday of each calendar month.

How many companies (survey participants) are represented in the PCSPI?

The number of survey participants does tend to vary, as new participants are regularly added and others are sometimes absent from one survey to the next. Coupled with specific confidentiality responsibilities, PHOTON Consulting does not disclose the number or specific information concerning the PCSPI participants.

Does the PCSPI account for differences in prices across geographies and companies?

Currently, PHOTON Consulting receives in-depth pricing data from a number of companies and geographic areas; however, the Index does not reveal the impact of specific data points characteristics in the index output.

How often is the PCSPI updated and published?

The PHOTON Consulting Silicon Price Index (PCSPI) is updated, rebalanced, and published by 4pm EST on the 3rd Monday of each calendar month.

Can I invest in the PHOTON Consulting Silicon Price Index (PCSPI)?

The PCSPI is not a tradable instrument and is available for informational purposes only. The PCSPI has not yet been deemed suitable for use in the design of structured products, portfolio construction, derivative trading, Mutual Funds, and/or Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs).

What other licenses are available based on the PCSPI?

Individuals or Corporations looking to discuss other information licensing opportunities can submit an inquiry to PHOTON Consulting at info@photon-consulting.com.

Where can I find more information on PHOTON Consulting Research & Services?

A leading provider of in-depth research, management and strategic consulting services specific to the solar energy industry since 2004, PHOTON Consulting has been providing actionable research and advice for complex projects with pivotal, high-stakes outcomes the world over. With a distinguished team of domain experts, PHOTON Consulting has a proven track record of hundreds of successful engagements including business strategy and planning, market and demand forecasting and policy analysis. If you would like more information on PHOTON Consulting Solar Research or Consulting Services, please visit www.PHOTON-consulting.com or fill out our contact form and a representative will get in touch with you as soon as possible.