On January 7, a report from SMM (Shanghai Metals Market) highlighted a significant increase in silicon wafer prices in China. As of January 6, leading companies quoted prices of 1.18 yuan per wafer for the N183 model, 1.35 yuan for the 210RN model, and 1.55 yuan for the 210N model.
Source: Securities Daily
On January 7, a report from SMM (Shanghai Metals Market) highlighted a significant increase in silicon wafer prices in China. As of January 6, leading companies quoted prices of 1.18 yuan per wafer for the N183 model, 1.35 yuan for the 210RN model, and 1.55 yuan for the 210N model. These prices represent notable increases from January 4’s highest quotes of 1.15 yuan, 1.25 yuan, and 1.45 yuan, respectively. Additionally, some polysilicon producers have also raised their prices. Industry analysts view this as an early sign of the sector’s efforts to combat “involution”—a term used to describe excessive competition leading to diminishing returns.
Over the past three months, the photovoltaic (PV) industry has convened multiple meetings focused on fostering industry self-discipline. By December 2024, several silicon producers announced plans to reduce and regulate production to curb unhealthy competition. Industry experts anticipate that with major producers implementing production cuts or temporary shutdowns, the pace of capacity reductions will accelerate, creating a healthier market environment.
To achieve long-term, high-quality growth, PV companies must go beyond production adjustments and focus on innovation. Zhong Baoshen, chairman of LONGi Green Energy, described the PV industry as a long-term endeavor—a true “marathon.” He stressed that only through the development of new technologies and products can the sector enter a new cycle of prosperity. Cao Renxian, chairman of the China Photovoltaic Industry Association, echoed this sentiment, urging companies to increase investments in research and development and adopt innovative marketing strategies to enhance competitiveness and technological capabilities. He also emphasized the importance of optimizing industrial layouts and planning capacity expansions more rationally.
A report from TrendForce predicts that by 2025, the expansion of domestic silicon material and module production will slow, while silicon wafer and solar cell production are expected to stabilize. Meanwhile, overseas photovoltaic capacity is forecasted to grow rapidly, subtly shifting the global supply-demand dynamic. Across the value chain, supply-side reforms will continue to optimize the market, fostering a more balanced and dynamic relationship between supply and demand. Additionally, advancements in technology and industrial upgrades are expected to drive further consolidation within the sector, positioning it for a new phase of high-quality growth.