Insights into the world’s largest solar market: Reflections from the SNEC PV Power Expo 2023

By: Máté Heisz, Chair of the Global Solar Council and Director of Global Affairs at SolarPower Europe

After returning from an incredible experience at the SNEC PV Power Expo in Shanghai, I wanted to share some of my impressions and key takeaways from one of the largest solar industry events in the world.

This year, the Global Solar Council was a proud partner of SNEC PV Power Expo, one of the largest solar power events in the world. This event was also the first time I had the privilege of attending as the new Chair of the Global Solar Council Board. Joined by an exceptional delegation from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, and the Philippines, we embarked on a journey of collaboration and knowledge exchange with China's leading solar companies. With over 300,000 people attending the exhibition in Shanghai, the event was a very real reminder of the massive scale of the solar power industry in China and beyond.

The experience was truly awe-inspiring and opened my eyes to the impressive solar story that China has to tell.

With its vast population and energy demands, China has made significant strides in renewable energy development and is now a leader in solar power. China currently boasts the world largest solar market, with over 392 GW of total installed, accounting for approximately over one-third of the world’s solar power capacity. Solar power in China is now the country’s third largest power source, and in 2022 solar accounted for 30% of China’s new power generation.

And this rapid growth doesn’t look like it will stop anytime soon. Although China is the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, it has set ambitious goals to address climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy. The country aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 and peak carbon emissions by 2030. Renewable energy, led by solar power, will play a crucial role in achieving these targets. As part of its 14th Five-Year Plan, China plans to add an additional 120 GW of solar capacity by 2025.

At the SNEC PV Power Expo, GSC’s international delegation witnessed firsthand China's dedication to scaling up the global solar industry. Chinese solar companies showcased their cutting-edge technologies, innovative solutions, and manufacturing capabilities. The Expo provided a platform for international cooperation, allowing participants from around the world to explore partnerships, build global supply chains and expand their knowledge.

Events like the SNEC PV Power Expo are crucial in accelerating the adoption of solar power on a global scale, and the GSC was truly proud to be a partner of this year’s event.

As we continue on our journey towards a net zero future, let’s continue to foster this international cooperation to boost the global solar industry as we work towards achieving a global renewables target at the upcoming COP28.