China’s solar installations dropped to a four-year low in March, adding only 8.91 gigawatts, signaling increased pressure on the sector. This slowdown follows a period of rapid expansion, with curtailment rates nearing government caps and manufacture

2026-04-23

China’s solar installations dropped to a four-year low in March, adding only 8.91 gigawatts, signaling increased pressure on the sector. This slowdown follows a period of rapid expansion, with curtailment rates nearing government caps and manufacturers facing overcapacity and losses. March's figures contrast sharply with previous surges in installations triggered by policy shifts. Solar cell production also fell 21% year-on-year, marking the steepest drop since September. Despite this, solar exports surged by nearly 80%, driven by global energy disruptions and expiring export tax rebates.