Is solar energy a good investment in China?

Solar energy is the most common, cheapest, and most mature renewable energy technology. With solar photovoltaics taking over recently, an in-depth look into their supply chain shows a surprising dependency on the Chinese market from the raw materials to the assembled PVs.

Why is solar energy important in China?

Since the Hu Jintao regime, and highlighted further under Xi Jinping, China has sought to transform its economy through the huge investment in innovative technology. What is unique about solar energy in China is that it was an important export industry in the early 2000s, before it emerged as a critical renewable energy industry.

Is China a good supplier of solar energy?

When it comes to supplying global demand, China is a favorable supplier; however, the main competitors are North America and Europe. It is noteworthy to mention that China made major investments in Malaysia and Vietnam, which made these countries major exporters of PV products as well (IEA, 2022a).

Why does China support solar companies?

At the local level, provincial and municipal officials strongly supported solar manufacturers mainly due to the alignment of their interests. China’s cadre evaluation system was designed in a way that “rational” bureaucrats would pay more attention to projects and targets beneficial to their promotion.

Will Chinese solar power the US?

Chinese solar is now expanding so fast that by the early 2030s, the country will generate more power from the sun than the amount of electricity the US will consume altogether, according to the International Energy Agency.

Does China have a solar industry?

Today, China has more than 80 percent of the world’s solar manufacturing capacity. The extraordinary scale of China’s renewables sector output has driven down prices worldwide, and this is a key factor in reducing the cost barrier to renewable systems for poorer countries.