Solar modules from all over the world are entering and crowding the European market. This growing supply lets prices drop. Nonetheless, various manufacturers develop and offer new products.

Chinese manufacturers have long attempted to enter the European market. In order to avoid this, customs duties were established. As a result, various Chinese manufacturers such as Trina Solar, Ja Solar or Jinko have started producing their goods outside of China, which allowed them to import them easily into Europe. What does this mean for the local manufacturers as well as the market and the customers?

Price drop for solar modules all over Europe

As Asia, America and other emerging markets continue selling their products on European markets, the competition grows fiercer. Many German companies have long sold their goods for less than the minimum price, a development which is expected to continue. Due to low demand, the price for high-end solar panels, for example, fell below 42 cents per watt in October, and by the beginning of 2017, prices will be in the 30s.

For installing companies, however, this price fall is a great advantage. Not only does it increase their customers’ return, but also the companies’ profit margins.

European manufacturers continue holding heads high

Meanwhile, some European manufacturers, like the German company Aleo, continue to believe in themselves. Aleo has only recently restarted producing cells and is not intimidated by global competitors. “We can manufacture cells with three, four and five busbars, achieving a mean efficiency of over 21 percent from mass produced cells,” says Alexander Kasic, Aleo’s head of cell production.

The Norwegian panel manufacturer REC is taking even bigger steps by mass-producing their series of solar panels named Twin Peak 72 that is mainly intended for commercial, industrial and greenfield use.

Competition never sleeps

Nevertheless, the future will remain rough for Aleo, REC and their fellow manufacturers, as further non-European products will penetrate the market. Panasonic, the Japanese panel manufacturer, will soon introduce their new product HIT N295 to the European market. This combines small panel dimensions (less than 1.6 square metres) and a strong frame with Panasonics’ tried and tested HIT technology. On top, Panasonic offers a 15-year warranty.

Thus, the European market is, and continues to be, in upheaval. It still remains to be seen who will end up taking over and dominating it.

Title image: lucarelli-temistocle/shutterstock