Investment in solar glass in New York USA

Why are solar glass suppliers investing in new production capacity?

As PV module capacity increases, glass suppliers are investing in new solar glass production capacity. New facilities are popping up in North America, with unique features to ensure competitiveness, such as using recycled material.

What is the demand for solar glass?

Andries Wantenaar, from market intelligence company Rethink Technology Research, said that "demand for solar glass is looking robust." “We’re excited about the potential for domestic solar manufacturing growth to provide jobs and R&D development in the US,” Solarcycle Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rob Vinje told pv magazine.

What is the expected growth in solar glass business?

The company said in a statement that it expected significant growth in solar glass business due to the “nearshoring” effect in the United States. In October 2023, it announced an expansion of its contract with First Solar and a plan to invest in a plant in Pennsylvania, as well as in adapting existing PV glass facilities.

Why does China dominate the solar glass market?

China dominates the solar glass market due to its high share of production and the energy-intensive nature of glass manufacturing. Wantenaar estimated that China holds ''around 90%'' of the solar glass market, which is higher than its 80% PV module share.