Particle.news
Download on the App Store

China’s Rebate Cuts Poised to Lift Solar Prices From April as Retailers Push Balcony PV Deals

China’s dominance in solar manufacturing makes the rebate cuts likely to raise costs even as existing inventories temporarily cushion retail prices.

Overview

  • Beijing’s removal of VAT export rebates for photovoltaic products takes effect on 1 April 2026, with battery export rebates cut from 9% to 6% the same day and fully abolished on 1 January 2027.
  • IEA data show China produced the vast majority of PV components in 2024, including roughly 78% of modules and 97% of wafers, giving the policy global reach.
  • Industry estimates point to roughly a 10% rise in module prices, with typical consumer increases for 2,000 W balcony systems commonly projected in the 5%–10% range, alongside added pressure from pricier inputs such as silver and lithium.
  • Immediate pass‑through is uneven as suppliers draw down stocked inventory; Zendure says it is not raising prices now and Solakon reports secured volumes that delay increases.
  • Retailers are using deep promotions to capture demand, including 2,000 W plus‑storage bundles reported at about €1,139 and some under €1,000 for a limited time, while advisers cite customer interest up by around 50%.