The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry has experienced remarkable growth over the past decade, with significant changes in the rankings of the top solar module manufacturers. From technological advancements to global market expansions, these shifts reflect the ongoing evolution of the industry. Let’s take a look at the 2010 to 2024 top 10 solar module shipment rankings, analyze the factors influencing these changes, and explore what the future holds for these leading players.

Top 10 Solar Module Shipment Rankings (2010-2024)

Based on annual shipment data, the solar module manufacturers in the top 10 have varied in their positions, with companies emerging, consolidating, or falling behind based on multiple factors such as production scale, technology, and global market penetration.


PV modules manufacturers shipment rank 2010-2024

2010: The Early Stages of Solar Market Expansion

In 2010, the solar market was still in its early growth stages, with many Chinese manufacturers making their first strides toward global dominance. Companies like First Solar (USA), Sharp (Japan), and SunPower (USA) held key positions in the market, but Chinese players began to establish themselves as major competitors.


2015: China Leads the Charge

By 2015, China had emerged as a dominant force in the solar industry. The rapid scaling of production capabilities and aggressive pricing strategies propelled Chinese companies such as Jinko Solar, Trina Solar, and Yingli Solar to the top. In this period, First Solar still held on to the top spot but faced mounting pressure from the growing Chinese competition. LONGi Solar and JA Solar were gaining traction and would soon begin to challenge established players.


2020: China Solidifies Its Global Leadership


By 2020, Chinese manufacturers had solidified their leadership in the global solar module market. LONGi Solar, Jinko Solar, JA Solar, and Trina Solar took the top spots, supported by their vast production capacities, technological advancements, and expansive global networks. First Solar remained a key player, but its market share was overtaken by the sheer scale and efficiency of Chinese companies.


2024: New Technologies and Market Shifts

In 2024, Jinko Solar remains at the top, with JA Solar, Trina Solar, and LONGi Solar close behind. However, TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) and BC (Back Contact) technologies have brought about a new era of innovation, reshaping the competitive landscape. Jinko Solar has maintained its leadership, primarily due to its cutting-edge technology and strong global presence. Meanwhile, TW Solar, Astronergy, and Canadian Solar continue to hold strong positions, reflecting their ability to adapt and innovate.


Top 10 Shipment Ranking in 2024:

1. Jinko Solar (China) - 90+ GW

2. JA Solar (China) - 75-80 GW

3. Trina Solar (China) - 70-75 GW

4. LONGi Solar (China) - 70-75 GW

5. TW Solar (China) - 48-50 GW

6. Astronergy (Chint) (China) - 40.2 GW

7. Canadian Solar (Canada) - 30.9-31.4 GW

8. GCL (China) - 22-23 GW

9. DAS Solar (China) - 22-23 GW

10. Risen Solar (China) - 19-20 GW


Factors Driving the Ranking Changes


Several factors have contributed to the rise and fall of solar manufacturers in the rankings over the past decade:


1. Technological Advancements: The transition from traditional monocrystalline and polycrystalline technologies to advanced TOPCon and BC technologies has significantly influenced module efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall performance. Manufacturers investing in these innovations have gained a competitive edge.


2. Production Capacity Expansion: As the global demand for solar modules increased, companies that were able to scale up production quickly—especially those based in China—dominated the market. LONGi Solar, for example, focused heavily on increasing its production capacity, allowing it to gain a significant share of the market.


3. Global Market Penetration: Companies with robust international distribution networks and a strong presence in emerging markets such as India, Africa, and the Middle East have seen significant growth. Companies like Jinko Solar and Trina Solar have excelled in this area.


4. Cost Competitiveness: Chinese manufacturers, with their strong manufacturing capabilities, have consistently been able to offer competitive prices, pushing companies from other regions out of the top spots. Price pressure, especially in the global utility-scale solar market, has been a key driver.


5. Policy and Subsidies: Government incentives, subsidies, and renewable energy targets have played a significant role in shaping the rankings. Countries with favorable policies, such as China, the EU, and the US, have enabled their domestic manufacturers to grow quickly and capture market share.


As demand for clean energy solutions grows globally, the solar module market will undoubtedly remain one of the most exciting and competitive sectors in the renewable energy space.


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