The spring for photovoltaic companies appears to be here. In 2011, domestic PV firms entered a long and difficult period. This was driven by changes in European solar subsidies, the deepening of the European debt crisis, and the "double reverse" anti-dumping measures imposed by Europe and the U.S. As a result, the industry—once heavily reliant on international markets—faced a severe adjustment. Many companies halted production, laid off workers, and cut wages. Wuxi Suntech, once the world’s largest PV module manufacturer, was forced into bankruptcy and reorganization.
However, the situation has turned around in recent years. A series of supportive policies have been introduced, earning praise from the industry as "unprecedented." These policies have helped lift the sector out of its slump. In the stock market, besides Suntech Power, most Chinese solar-related stocks saw sharp gains this year. Artes rose over 300%, while Hanwha Xinneng, Jinko Energy, Daxin Energy, and Trina Solar all surged more than 200%. Industry experts expect that with policy refinements, the long-awaited domestic PV market will finally take off, boosting upstream manufacturers.
The market's revival stems from multiple policy initiatives. Recently, Li Jingbin, a representative of Yingli Group's southwest branch, invested in a 2.12 kW distributed PV project on the roof of a village in Baoding City. He explained that eight 265W monocrystalline modules generate about 2,420 kWh annually, saving 1 ton of standard coal and 2.5 tons of COâ‚‚. The investment can be recouped within 8 years, and he feels very satisfied with the outcome.
Li is one of many beneficiaries of China's growing PV market. Earlier this year, the State Council released "Several Opinions on Promoting the Healthy Development of the Photovoltaic Industry," aiming for an annual installed capacity of around 10 GW from 2013 to 2015, reaching over 35 GW by 2015. It also proposed a 20-year on-grid tariff and subsidy period. The National Development and Reform Commission followed with "Interim Measures for Distributed Power Generation Management," clarifying procedures for construction, grid access, and operations.
In late August, the NDRC issued a notice encouraging price leverage to support the industry, dividing the country into three solar resource zones with tariffs of 0.9, 0.95, and 1 yuan per kWh. Distributed projects would receive a 0.42 yuan/kWh subsidy, with a 20-year implementation period. In September, the National Energy Administration and the National Development Bank issued guidelines supporting "self-use, surplus power sold to grid" models, allowing up to 15-year loans and differentiated pricing for key projects.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology also released new regulations to control unnecessary capacity expansion. Industry insiders note that with exports blocked, the focus is shifting toward the domestic market, which offers higher returns. While component manufacturing profits are low (2–5%), PV power plants can yield 12% returns, making them more attractive.
Some companies have already started preparing. Yingli established a distributed power investment company and secured a 60 MW demonstration zone. Trina Solar and others are expanding into downstream power station development, aiming to boost revenue through new business models.
Provincial governments are also promoting PV. For example, Jiangxi plans to add 200 MW annually, reaching 600 MW by 2015 and 1,000 MW by 2017.
Distributed PV is expected to grow rapidly, especially in urban-rural areas where households and hospitals can benefit. Experts believe it may surpass large-scale power stations and become the dominant model. Miao Liansheng of Yingli envisions a future where PV equipment becomes available in supermarkets, giving individuals more choice.
Despite progress, challenges remain. Weak R&D capabilities, an underdeveloped subsidy system, and a need for better application environments persist. Future success depends on refining policies, increasing public awareness, and improving technological innovation.
Financial support should be strengthened, with tax incentives for R&D and M&A activities. Banks must continue supporting high-potential enterprises, while innovative financial products can help small businesses and residential installations.
Finally, public education on renewable energy is essential. Increasing awareness will not only promote adoption but also empower people to save energy and reduce emissions. With continued policy support and market growth, China is well-positioned to become the world’s largest PV market, offering vast potential for future development.
A moisture meter is a device used to measure the moisture content of materials such as wood, concrete, drywall, and soil. It works by using electrical conductivity to measure the amount of moisture present in the material. The meter typically has two metal probes that are inserted into the material being tested. The display on the meter provides a reading of the moisture content as a percentage. Moisture meters are commonly used in construction, woodworking, and agriculture to ensure that materials are at the appropriate moisture level for their intended use.
Moisture Meter,Digital Moisture Meter,Plant Digital Moisture Meter,Meter Precision Water Analyzer
Lachoi Scientific Instrument (Shaoxing) Co., Ltd. , https://www.lachoinst.com