On June 29, Longi, a leading solar company, released its investor relations report, highlighting the recent developments in the solar industry. Longi observed that since May, there has been significant price volatility in photovoltaic (PV) products, leading some end-customers to temporarily postpone their purchases, which affected short-term market demand. However, towards the end of June, industry chain prices reached their lowest point, and there are now indications of a recovery in PV capacity demand. Looking at the global PV demand structure for 2023, China stands out as the market with the highest growth potential, particularly in centralized markets. Longi noted that based on domestic bids for large PV projects this year, most centralized projects are scheduled to commence in the second half of 2023. With the current PV module prices falling below 1.5 yuan per watt, the economic viability of photovoltaic power generation is further emphasized. Coupled with the impact of power shortages caused by hot weather, it is expected that global PV demand will continue to rise.
To adapt to the fluctuations in industry chain prices, Longi has adjusted its operating rate for wafer and module production according to changes in upstream and downstream demand. As demand picks up, there is an anticipated moderate increase in the start rates for wafer and module production. Despite temporary effects on PV capacity demand due to industry chain price changes, overall global demand remains on an upward trajectory. Consequently, Longi has experienced increasing shipments of wafers and modules in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the previous quarter.
Regarding cell technology, Longi stated that in the short term, the company has launched the Hi-MO6 series (HPBC) modules for the global distributed market and the Hi-MO7 series (HPDC) modules for the centralized market. Taking a comprehensive approach to the PV system life cycle, Longi aims to address the specific needs of different market segments and gradually build a product portfolio with competitive advantages.
In the medium and long term, Longi plans to continue upgrading PV cell technology and conduct research on various cell technologies. The company will not focus solely on a single path but also prioritize capacity development with low-cost and high-efficiency cell technology.