News

Module Prices Stabilize, Efficiency Standards Rise

Early 2025 brings some positive news for the solar industry. High-efficiency module prices have remained stable, and fully black modules, reintroduced to the market, have shown minimal price fluctuations. Meanwhile, advancements in technology have pushed the efficiency threshold for high-efficiency modules to 22.5%, signaling the growing adoption of cutting-edge photovoltaic technologies.

This shift highlights the acceleration of high-efficiency solutions across the industry, offering more choices for consumers. However, as these modules become the "new normal," the market's expectations for performance and innovation are also increasing.

A Complex Supply and Demand Landscape

Despite stable prices, the market continues to face supply constraints. High-performance modules, particularly those used in large-scale projects, remain scarce due to several factors:

1. Free inventory is usually available only when projects are delayed or canceled.

2. Post-holiday logistics challenges and delayed production restarts for some manufacturers.

3. Intentional shortages created by Chinese manufacturers aiming to avoid oversupply and destructive competition in European markets.

The price crash at the end of 2024 has further complicated the situation. Suppliers cleared warehouse stock at rock-bottom prices to balance their accounts, saturating the market with low-cost inventory. This has dampened demand for new modules, particularly in Germany, where uncertainties over potential government policy changes and the global implications of Donald Trump’s re-election have stalled momentum.

Balancing Aesthetics and Performance: The Rise of Full-Black Modules

Full-black modules have become increasingly popular in residential installations due to their sleek aesthetic. Historically, these modules were priced similarly to black-and-white modules. However, growing consumer demand for better visual integration has driven a price premium of several euro cents per watt-peak.

Interestingly, this price difference stems not from production costs but from the meticulous cell sorting required to ensure uniform appearance. While the longevity of this premium remains uncertain, it reflects the shifting priorities of consumers who now value both performance and design.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities in the Solar Market

The trajectory of module prices in the coming months will largely depend on global and national demand. As technology advances and classifications evolve, questions remain about how these changes will shape the industry:

· Will the widespread adoption of high-efficiency modules redefine market dynamics?

· Can the premium on aesthetic-driven products like full-black modules be sustained?

SpolarPV is committed to monitoring these trends closely and working with partners to navigate the complexities of the market. Together, we aim to drive the widespread adoption of solar energy technologies and support the sustainable development of the industry.