In recent years, solar panel manufacturers in China have developed rapidly. China has reduced the manufacturing cost of solar PV through advanced manufacturing technologies, helping to promote the growth of the solar PV industry in China while becoming a major global PV supplier.

Market overview

China’s industrial and innovation policies have focused on expanding solar panel production and markets, making solar PV the most cost-effective power generation technology in many parts of the world.

Over the past decade, global solar panel manufacturing capacity has shifted rapidly from Europe, Japan, and the United States to China, and solar panel manufacturers in China have been at the forefront of investment and innovation. According to the report, China’s share of all key manufacturing steps for solar panels now exceeds 80%. And in terms of key devices such as polysilicon and wafers, its production share will increase to more than 95 percent over the next few years based on its current capacity under construction.

In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the top 12 solar panel manufacturers in China and the risks you should be aware of when choosing a solar panel manufacturer.

Top 12 Solar Panel Manufacturers in China

1. Jinko Solar (Jiang)

Based in Zhejiang province, Jinko Solar is one of the most famous solar panel manufacturers in the world. Since its inception in 2006, the company has set standards in the solar industry. Their wide product range includes high efficiency monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Genco Solar has been particularly praised for its Eagle series, which offers durable and high-performance panels. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their products, which constantly strive to improve performance and durability. As a Tier 1 solar panel manufacturer, Jinko Solar enjoys a global presence and caters to diverse market demands.

2. Trina Solar (Jiang Su)

Based in Jiangsu province, Trina Solar is a global leader in the solar industry. Founded in 1997, the company offers a wide range of products, including high efficiency monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, as well as advanced bifacial and smart panels. Trina Solar is known for its Vertex series, which boasts of extremely high power output and efficiency. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability has made significant contributions to China’s solar panel manufacturing.

3. JA Solar (Hebe)

Based in Hebei Province, JA Solar has been a prominent player in the solar industry since its establishment in 2005. Specializing in high performance photovoltaic products, JA Solar’s range includes advanced PERC cells and both monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. The company is dedicated to technological innovation, having achieved several world records for solar cell performance.

4. Longyi Solar (Shanshi)

Headquartered in Shaanxi Province, Longyi Solar is one of the largest manufacturers of monocrystalline solar panels globally. Established in 2000, LONGi Solar is known for its high quality and efficient monocrystalline panels, especially the Hi-MO series. With a strong focus on R&D, LONGi continuously develops innovative technologies to improve solar panel performance and reduce costs.

5. Suntech Power (Jiangsu)

Located in Jiangsu Province, Suntec Power has been at the forefront of the solar industry since 2001. Their product range includes the HyPro series of monocrystalline panels, renowned for reliability and performance. With a global distribution network, Suntech provides solutions for residential to utility scale projects.

6. Canadian Solar (Suzhou)

Despite its name, Canadian Solar’s manufacturing base is in Suzhou, China. Founded in 2001, the company offers a wide range of photovoltaic modules, including both conventional and flexible panels. Their BiKu modules, which generate electricity from both sides, are particularly popular. Canadian Solar’s global presence and strong emphasis on R&D make it a trusted manufacturer.

7. Rising Energy (Jiang)

Risen Energy, located in Zhejiang Province, is a leading solar panel manufacturer since 1986. Known for high efficiency and reliable solar panels, Risen Energy’s innovative approach and global reach make it a top choice for solar solutions.

8. Talesun Solar (Jiangsu)

Based in Jiangsu Province, Talesun Solar has built a strong reputation since 2010. With a diverse product range, including monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, Talesun focuses on high performance and durability, making it a preferred option for many.

9. GCL System Integration (Jiang Su)

Part of GCL Group, one of China’s largest energy conglomerates, GCL System Integration offers a wide range of solar products. Established in 1990, their monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are known for high performance and competitive pricing.

10. BYD Solar (Shenzhen)

Headquartered in Shenzhen, BYD Solar is a leader in renewable energy solutions. Established in 1995, BYD’s product range includes monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Their innovative approach and commitment to sustainability ensure superior performance and reliability.

11. Singold Solar (Shenzhen)

Singold Solar, based in Shenzhen, specializes in high efficiency and flexible solar panels. Founded in 2008, Singold Solar has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative products designed for a variety of applications, including portable solar solutions for outdoor activities and residential use. Their commitment to quality and durability makes them a strong contender in the global solar market.

12. Chint Solar (Zhejiang)

Located in Zhejiang province, Chint Solar is part of the Chint Group, a major player in the energy sector. Founded in 1984, Chint Solar offers a comprehensive range of photovoltaic products, including monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. Their focus on innovation and quality has positioned them as a trusted manufacturer in the solar industry.

What to look for when choosing a solar panel manufacturer?

While China is known for its extensive manufacturing industry and is a hub for solar panels, care should be taken when choosing a Chinese solar panel manufacturer.

Sourcing solar panels made in China may seem easy because the Internet provides easy access to many solar manufacturers in China.

However, lack of proper quality control, difficulty in verifying manufacturers’ claims, and large number of middlemen posing as manufacturers can lead to losses.

The risk of not getting the exact solar products promised in China should also be considered. Given the competitive price list of solar panels in China, quality may suffer. Browsing Chinese solar panel manufacturers to find the best solar panels in China requires due diligence.

It is helpful to know the top 12 solar panel manufacturers in China. It is recommended to visit Chinese solar panel factories whenever possible. If looking for alternatives, it’s also helpful to know which solar panels are not made in China.

Additionally, it is important to consult China’s Tier 1 solar panel manufacturers and learn about the capacity and certification of China’s largest solar panel manufacturers.