Current State of Global Photovoltaic Technology
The development of renewable energy has become a global priority in addressing the energy transition and combating climate change. Among renewable technologies, photovoltaic (PV) power generation has experienced rapid growth in recent years, emerging as a clean, low-carbon, and cost-competitive energy source in many countries. In 2020 alone, the world added 127 GW of new PV capacity, bringing the total installed capacity to 707 GW.
Crystalline silicon solar cells dominate, with emerging technologies gaining traction.
PV cells, the core component of the solar industry, are categorized by materials and processes into types like crystalline silicon, thin-film, perovskite, and organic cells. Crystalline silicon cells, known for their high conversion efficiency, abundant raw material availability, and environmental safety, remain the mainstream technology in large-scale production.
The widespread adoption of PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology has significantly boosted crystalline silicon cell efficiency in recent years. Simultaneously, emerging technologies such as perovskite cells have become a hot research topic globally. These cells are achieving laboratory conversion efficiencies comparable to crystalline silicon, and while their industrialization is progressing, challenges remain in scaling up and ensuring long-term stability.
Enhanced PV systems and diversified applications.
Photovoltaic systems are advancing in precision and scalability. The adoption of 1,500V systems now surpasses the older 1,000V standard, improving grid safety and reliability while enhancing power generation quality. Integrated applications such as “PV + agriculture,” “PV + aquaculture,” and “PV + architecture” are expanding in scope. Innovations like microgrids and smart grids are further integrating PV power with traditional electricity infrastructure.
Trends in Global Photovoltaic Technology
Countries worldwide are accelerating innovation across the PV value chain as a strategic move to foster emerging industries. Efforts focus on advancing materials, manufacturing, and system applications to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness.
Core PV components are evolving towards higher efficiency and lower costs.
Crystalline silicon cells, with a well-established industrial ecosystem, will continue dominating production. Future improvements will focus on higher conversion efficiencies, reduced material and energy consumption, and lower manufacturing costs. Technologies such as perovskite and tandem solar cells represent the next frontier, with substantial investments aimed at improving device performance and stability. Once large-scale application and reliability issues are resolved, perovskite cells are expected to redefine the PV market landscape.
Expanding application scenarios for PV technology.
Countries are adapting PV applications to their unique conditions, promoting developments like Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), floating solar farms, PV-integrated agriculture, and solar carports. Related research emphasizes specialized products, integrated control technologies, and operational synergies to enhance versatility and performance.
China's Photovoltaic Technology Development
During the 13th Five-Year Plan period, China's photovoltaic technology advanced significantly, driven by rapid industry expansion. Key components such as PV cells and modules achieved globally leading production capabilities, while manufacturing equipment progressed towards full localization. The integration of intelligent technologies into PV systems has further optimized performance.
World-class PV cell and module technologies.
By the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan, China had transitioned from traditional polycrystalline aluminum-back cells to advanced monocrystalline PERC cells. The average conversion efficiency of crystalline silicon cells increased from 18.5% at the beginning of the period to 22.8%, reflecting a leap forward in production technology.
Emerging technologies like TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact), HJT (Heterojunction), and IBC (Interdigitated Back Contact) are increasingly industrialized, with Chinese enterprises repeatedly setting world records for production efficiency. Similarly, advancements in perovskite technology have allowed Chinese researchers to match global leaders in laboratory efficiency records, with ongoing progress toward commercialization.
Localized and advanced manufacturing equipment.
China’s PV manufacturing equipment has shifted from low-end to high-end production. High customization, automation, and digitization are transforming the sector into an intelligent manufacturing powerhouse. Key components like polysilicon wafers, cells, and modules are now predominantly produced with domestic technology.
Smarter and more efficient PV systems.
New technologies, including tracking systems and 1,500V designs, are increasing the power output of PV systems. Intelligent robots, drones, big data analytics, and advanced communication technologies are widely used for system operation and maintenance, further enhancing performance.
Trends in China’s Photovoltaic Technology
As the world’s largest PV market, China plays a pivotal role in incubating and applying new solar technologies. Moving forward, the country aims to lead global innovation in industrialized PV technologies.
Higher efficiencies for PV cells.
Crystalline silicon cells will maintain dominance, with PERC technology continuing to evolve. N-type crystalline silicon cells, utilizing TOPCon or HJT technology, are poised to become the next mainstream option once their cost-efficiency balance matures. High-performance cells like perovskite and tandem cells will drive further breakthroughs in efficiency as industrialization progresses.
Enhanced modules with dual priorities: efficiency and reliability.
Technologies like half-cell, shingled, and multi-busbar modules will see wider adoption. Bifacial modules, offering higher power generation, are expected to become mainstream, supported by new encapsulation materials and techniques that improve durability.
Smarter, more diverse PV systems.
Inverters will evolve towards higher power capacities, intelligent operations, and seamless integration with energy storage. Innovations in BIPV and other new applications will unlock additional opportunities for PV development, maximizing its potential across diverse scenarios.
