The prices of PV modules have fallen by approximately 5% to 8% in all technological classes in recent weeks. says Martin Schachinger, the founder of PVXCHANGE.COM. This means that prices are going strongly to the level that we have seen at the beginning of the year, which can only be described as unhealthy for module producers.
Although the Modulemarkt in June only showed marginal, non -ambitious movement, a clearer trend now takes shape. The prices started to fall after a short stabilization phase – falling by approximately 5% to 8% in all technological classes in recent weeks.
This decrease returns the prices to levels that are seen at the start of the year, a range that remains unprofitable for most module producers. Whether this is a temporary correction or the start of a persistent downward trend can still be seen.
Some important wholesalers have already reduced prices by a maximum of € 0.02 ($ 0.023)/W after months of cautious increases. Others are expected to follow, because the demand in the photovoltaic market remains in the event of expectations. Excessive inventory, purchased pending a higher demand, now weighs on balance sheets and must be deleted. The reductions are not only supported by intermediaries, because falling silicon prices in China caused the wider trend.
The domestic demand in China has been weakened since the subsidies have expired, so cheap modules are released for export. Prices for bifacial glass glass modules for projects on utility scale in Europe are again, or still, well under € 0.10/W, delivered and installation. This continues to tax manufacturers, many of whom have posted two years of losses and are now low in reserves.
Chinese manufacturers are confronted with extra pressure as government support is phased out. In recent months, tax benefits have removed and shortened or recalled loans with low interest rates. With the aim of China of the global dominance of solar market that has largely been reached, the government expects companies to operate independently. Rescue packages and personnel transition plans are absent; Companies are confronted with economic survival under hard competitive conditions.
To prevent this pressure, manufacturers discuss price pacts, voluntary price floors and production quotas to reduce internal competition and to alleviate the price war. But earlier attempts have shown limited success. Ultimately, every company works independently along the supply chain – pushing every module that can build it, regardless of the margins.
Massive overproduction will continue to exist in parts of industry, especially since the global demand becomes soft in the midst of political headwind and a shift back to fossil fuels. In the United States, a mix of protectionist trade measures and growing resistance to renewable energy sources undermine the demand, which concludes many foreign suppliers. Few alternative markets offer similar prices.
The expectations for a rebound on the European photovoltaic market in the second half of the year remain low. Policy resistance to solar energy and wind rises, with climate goals that slide off political agendas. Recent statements by the German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Minister of Economy Katherina Reiche underline that trend.
Climate goals are diluted on the European Union, timelines delayed and fossil and nuclear energy are re -addressing the mix. Even the relatively progressive European Commission is shifting to the right, making it more difficult to maintain ambitious renewable policy.
This instability discourages investments and weakens the prospects for new construction. Conflicting political signals feed uncertainty, while the most important schedule and allowing reforms stall. Profits intended to speed up the energy transition risk that is reversed. Political actors seem more inclined to make the sun sector falter than to implement its cost -effective proposals.
The industry may not withdraw in this environment. Although there is still a recession, companies and lawyers must continue to involve policy makers with clear arguments and evidence. Public involvement is also of vital importance – citizens must participate in shaping a sustainable future. If necessary, that means renewed public demonstrations to demand a livable future.
Prices in June 2025, including changes compared to the previous month (from 7 July).
About the author: Martin Schachinger Has studied electrical engineering and has been active in the field of photovoltaic and renewable energy for almost 30 years. In 2004 he set up the online trading platform of PVXCHANGE.COM. The company has standard components in stock for new installations and solar modules and inverters that are no longer produced.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author, and do not necessarily reflect it by PV -Magazine.
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