China is set to roll out sweeping new energy efficiency regulations that could force inefficient solar manufacturers out of the market, as part of a major restructuring of its photovoltaic sector.
The new mandatory standards, covering the entire solar supply chain from polysilicon to inverters, are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027. Authorities say the move is designed to cut excess production capacity and move competition away from price wars.
The three regulations — GB 29447-2026, GB 47835-2026, and GB 47834-2026 — will set legally binding efficiency requirements for domestic solar manufacturing. Unlike past voluntary guidelines, these rules will directly impact production, procurement, imports, and project approvals for renewable energy.
GB 29447-2026 targets polysilicon and germanium production by imposing stricter limits on energy use in key manufacturing processes. The tighter rules are expected to put pressure on older, power-intensive polysilicon plants while pushing companies to invest in efficiency upgrades.
To comply, manufacturers may have to adopt measures such as improved heat recovery systems, hydrogen recycling, and overall process optimization.
The wafer segment will also come under tighter scrutiny through GB 47835-2026, which sets new standards for monocrystalline silicon production. Industry observers say older crystal-pulling machines and inefficient wafer production lines could struggle to meet the new benchmarks as the sector shifts toward more advanced manufacturing techniques.
The overhaul signals Beijing’s push to streamline the solar industry, reduce energy waste, and ensure that future growth is driven by technology and efficiency rather than low-cost overproduction.
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