Soaring Silver Prices Force Solar Makers To Rethink Materials

Talkmarkets
2026.01.07 15:50
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Longi Green Energy Technology Co. is shifting its solar cell production from silver to lower-cost base metals due to rising silver prices and shrinking margins. The company plans to start large-scale production using base metals in Q2, aiming to reduce solar module costs. Silver prices have surged, making up over 17% of solar module costs, compared to just 3% in 2023. Other companies like Jinko Solar and Shanghai Aiko are also moving towards silver-free cells. Despite challenges, demand for silver in the solar industry is expected to drop by 7% next year.