Weekly Solar Industry Insights: June 16–22, 2025

U.S. Residential Solar Crisis Worsens

The U.S. residential solar industry faces collapse as the Senate's proposal to eliminate clean energy tax credits within 180 days threatens its stability. Combined with high interest rates and state-level policy cuts like California's NEM changes, major solar companies are nearing bankruptcy. Solar stocks have plummeted, and over 330,000 jobs are at risk, indicating a significant industry upheaval.

Solar Stocks Drop as Tax Credits Are Removed

Following the Senate’s decision to fully eliminate clean energy tax credits, solar stocks have dropped sharply. The lack of federal support has raised serious concerns among investors, casting doubt on the future growth of U.S. clean energy.

U.S. Module Price Gap Widens Over Trade Fears

A widening price gap has appeared in the U.S. solar module market. Southeast Asian panels (from Indonesia and Laos) are priced as low as $0.26/W, while modules from India are much higher. U.S.-assembled modules using local content are even more expensive, costing between $0.40–$0.50/W. This disparity is driven by fears of new U.S. tariffs on Southeast Asian imports and early buying activity from developers.

Solar Remains the Cheapest Power Source in the U.S.

Despite low natural gas prices, solar continues to be the most cost-effective energy source in the U.S., according to Lazard’s latest report. With lower construction and operational costs, utility-scale renewables outperform natural gas, making them the preferred option for future power investments.

160 GW of U.S. Solar Projects Move Forward Despite Market Shake-Up

While 130 GW of solar projects were canceled due to stricter interconnection rules and rising costs, 160 GW of projects with signed agreements are progressing. The overall U.S. project pipeline has decreased to 2,290 GW, reflecting a shift toward more viable and expedited clean energy projects.

China Polysilicon Prices Fall Amid Oversupply

Polysilicon prices in China have decreased by 11.76% since April, now at CNY 35.625/kg, due to excessive inventories and weak demand. Producers are cutting output and redirecting supply to India. Analysts expect prices to continue falling through 2025, which could benefit global module manufacturers.

Abandoned Coal Mines Could Support 288 GW of Solar

A report by Global Energy Monitor indicates that unused or soon-to-close coal mines could host up to 288 GW of solar capacity—10% of the current global total. These sites, often near existing grid infrastructure, could create over 317,000 permanent jobs and promote clean energy growth and sustainable land use.

European Solar Module Prices Decline Slightly, Future Uncertain

Solar module prices in Europe dropped about €0.01 per watt in June, but no clear trend has emerged. Ongoing market volatility, policy changes, and global trade dynamics continue to make the pricing outlook uncertain.

Information Source: PV Magazine, Financial Times