Supercapacitors: Taiwan leverages technical expertise for young line

Technical expertise, stable supply chain, well-developed infrastructure help boost line

A strong background in electrolytic capacitor manufacturing has given Taiwan suppliers an edge over their mainland China and South Korea counterparts in the supercapacitors industry. Mass production of the line, also known as electric double-layer capacitors or EDLC, started in late-2007 and is still in its infancy.

Putting off large-volume manufacture has actually helped makers in the island find solutions to some production issues, including leaking, that hindered their rivals in overseas hubs.

On-time delivery and a stable electronic components supply chain are also boosting the island’s potential to become a sourcing center for supercapacitors.

Further, makers have the advantage of well-developed transport and communication facilities that include two major seaports in Keelung and Kaohsiung, and an airport in Taoyuan.

The island is already major provider of mass production, OEM and multiple aftersales services to the consumer electronics, computers, communication and content industries in Asia.

Makers in the island are optimistic that the EDLC industry will pick up, driven by strong demand from power tools, solar power systems and car electronics. As such, they are positioning themselves as a key player in the segment. Interviewed supplier PAC Electronics Co. Ltd, in fact, believes that Taiwan is now ready to engage fully in large-volume manufacture of lead- and thin-type EDLCs.