China tops solar cell production

As the world moves to alternative energy sources, it begs the question, "Which is Worse: Buying Solar Panels from China or Oil from OPEC?" The Information Network report entitled 'Opportunities in the Solar Market for Crystalline and Thin Film Solar Cells,' finds that nine of the top 15 solar panel makers in the world are from China with Greater China continuing to increase production of solar cells.

"Greater China manufactured nearly 60 per cent of the worldwide solar cells in 2010 and exported more than 90 per cent, noted Robert Castellano, president of The Information Network." With the Chinese renowned for low-cost manufacturing, can the non-Chinese solar manufacturers compete against the likes of Suntech Power, JA Solar, Yingli Green Energy, Trina Solar, Gintech, Motech and Canadian Solar?

Total cell production from the China/Taiwan region increased 152 per cent, from 5,630MW in 2009 to 14,193MW in 2010, representing 59.4 per cent of global production, up from 50 per cent in 2009.

While 65 per cent of solar cells were installed in Europe in 2010, only 13 per cent of solar cells were manufactured there. Production increased 49 per cent in Europe in 2010, while global production increased 110 per cent. Production in North America increased 93 per cent in 2010.

To make matters worse, China is adding another 14GW of capacity in 2011.

"Clearly the Obama energy stimulus package must include ways to generate jobs here in the U.S. The alternative energy programme in the U.S. needs an Energy Czar to enable job production, and I volunteer my services," added Castellano.

For more statistics and forecasts, click here.