In the ongoing global push for energy transition, the photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage industry has emerged as a linchpin in the clean energy sector. With the global PV and energy storage market experiencing rapid growth in installation demand, coupled with intense competition and rapid technological advancements, the need for innovation has become more critical than ever.

According to the International Energy Agency, global PV installed capacity is expected to reach 3000 GW by 2030, growing at an average annual rate of over 20%. This growth trajectory underlines the potential of the industry, but also highlights the challenges of staying at the forefront of technology. The sustainable development of the industry depends to a large extent on the independent innovation and original technologies of companies and institutions. Only by mastering these can companies secure a leading position in the global industrial chain and drive the continuous progress of new energy technologies for the benefit of mankind.

Against this backdrop, 21 Chinese PV enterprises and institutions have joined forces and issued the “Initiative on Actively Promoting the Independent Innovation and Original Technology Development of the Photovoltaic and Energy Storage Industry” on 27 February 2025.

Participants:

The initiative outlines four key actions.

First, PV and energy storage companies are urged to increase their independent innovation capacity. This includes increasing investment in research and development (R&D) and encouraging researchers to explore new technical avenues without fear of failure, as original achievements often come from practical experimentation.

Second, universities and research institutions are called upon to strengthen their cooperation with enterprises. By focusing on transformative original research and forward-looking studies that meet the needs of industry, they can provide the theoretical basis and talent pool necessary for the emergence of original technologies.

Third, industry associations also have an important role to play. They need to continue to build platforms for communication, facilitate knowledge sharing and promote technical cooperation. In this way, they can create a favourable environment for the development of original technologies.

Finally, the initiative calls on relevant authorities to strengthen the protection of independent innovation and original technologies. The introduction of supportive policies and incentives is considered crucial to promoting the healthy and orderly development of the PV industry and creating a harmonious and competitive market environment.

This joint effort by the 21 Chinese companies and institutions represents a significant step forward in China’s commitment to driving innovation in the PV and energy storage industries. By working together, it is hoped that they will not only strengthen China’s position in the global clean energy market, but also contribute to the global transition to a more sustainable energy future.