MEMC will also scale-back production, and merge its SunEdison PV project development arm and its Solar Materials division into a single business.

The US group says the moves will “better align the business to current and expected market conditions” in the solar industry and the semiconductor market – its other key sector.

MEMC will cut its workforce by 1,300 worldwide – 250 of them in the US – representing about 20% of its total employees.

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