Opinion
Talking point
Two pieces of news affecting Chinese PV module imports into Europe are poised
to have a knock-on effect on the UK PV market in the months to come, argues Liz
MacFarlane, Zenex Solar
irst was the news that three
Chinese companies (Renesola,
Canadian Solar and ET Solar)
faced being excluded from the
Minimum Import Price (MIP) agreement,
due to alleged serious contravention of its
rules around importing PV from China into
Europe. Renesola immediately announced its
departure from the undertaking.
The effect this will have on the market is
as yet unclear, but given similar experience in
the past, then surely this will restrict supply
in to the UK. Just what we need as the nation
continues to embrace PV.
This news was closely followed by an
industry buzz that the MIP itself is to increase
from April 01, meaning that Chinese PV
F
manufacturers committed to the agreement
will have to sell their solar modules for EUR
0.56 per watt in the EU.
The weak exchange rate of the euro
against the US dollar has been cited as the
reason behind the increase.
So what does this all mean? Well, three
large manufacturers potentially stepping aside
from the MIP undertaking seems likely to have
an effect on the amount of product available to
the UK, and therefore also an increase in price
as demand outweighs supply.
Any increases in MIP and decreases in
FiT always lead to a scramble for product,
adding a further burden to the issues around
demand and supply.
So my suggestion? Make sure that as an
installer you choose your product wisely. If you
make sure you are choosing a brand that has
always adhered to the MIP regulations and
that has strong consistent supply, then you
won’t go far wrong.
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