China moves to block exports of its next-generation perovskite and tandem solar manufacturing know-how
The plan would add 12 solar technologies to Beijing's export control list, though finished cells and panels would not be affected.
China's commerce and science ministries proposed Friday to ban exports of the manufacturing technology behind high-efficiency perovskite and tandem solar cells, a step that could slow the spread of next-generation solar factories outside the country, Vincent Shaw reported in pv magazine.
The joint proposal would add 12 solar technologies to China's catalog of technologies prohibited or restricted from export. It is part of a wider consultation covering 40 technologies in solar power, artificial intelligence and biomedicine, with public comments open until Nov. 15.
The bans would cover production processes and equipment for perovskite-silicon tandem cells that reach at least 30% efficiency, large perovskite modules, certain polysilicon production methods and ultra-thin silicon wafers. Exports of other advanced know-how, including some polysilicon plant engineering and high-performance cell processes, would require government licenses.
China dominates global solar manufacturing, and the rules could delay factory projects abroad, raise compliance costs and limit the use of advanced Chinese production equipment overseas. Finished cells and modules would not be directly affected, but licensing, equipment exports and on-site technical support for controlled technologies could be blocked or require approval.
Although the bans have not taken effect, an interim rule that started Friday requires companies to register planned exports of the listed technologies through the Ministry of Commerce's online system. The ministry cited national security, noting solar's growing use in aerospace and defense, and said the measures do not target any particular country, region or company.
This brief is based on an article published Oct. 16, 2026, by Vincent Shaw in pv magazine. Read the original: https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/10/16/china-proposes-ban-on-exports-of-perovskite-tandem-solar-manufacturing-technology/
This article was produced with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed by an editor before publication.
