Market supply and demand stabilized the solar industry in 2014
2025-09-23 09:06:32
The solar industry is expected to see a stabilization in supply and demand. According to the latest report from NPD Solarbuzz, a leading market research firm, the solar sector will transition from a demand-constrained market to a supply-driven one in 2014. This shift is driven by falling solar power plant costs, consolidation among manufacturers, and a more balanced supply-demand dynamic.
Michael Barker, a senior analyst at NPD Solarbuzz, noted that the growth of the solar industry has historically been influenced by end-user deployment. While global market size was previously estimated based on country-specific demand, by 2014, it will be more closely tied to production and shipment levels—characteristic of a supply-driven market.
Over the past three years, the cost of solar modules, systems, and manufacturing has dropped by over 50%, with many uncompetitive PV cell suppliers exiting the market. The number of manufacturers has decreased from around 250 in 2010 to about 150 in 2013, helping the market move toward a more stable supply-demand relationship.
In recent years, the demand-constrained environment led to oversupply in the solar industry, which reduced capacity utilization and pushed capital spending in 2013 to its lowest level in eight years.
Notably, Asia, particularly China and Japan, remained the top two demand markets in 2013. Together with the U.S., the third-largest market, these regions accounted for 60% of global solar demand. Their influence continues to shape the market landscape.
Barker emphasized that when analyzing regional demand shifts in 2014, it's important to consider China, Japan, and the U.S. collectively rather than looking at each separately. A decline in demand in one region could be offset by growth in another, significantly impacting global market trends.
Finlay Colville, vice president at NPD Solarbuzz, highlighted that the Chinese mainland, Japan, and the U.S. are known for their flexible financing models and supportive policies, which drive short-term demand. For solar module suppliers, understanding the evolving dynamics in these key markets will be crucial in 2014.
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