China Solar Encapsulation Market Overview, 2030

China serves as the leading nation in producing solar modules and is also the top user of encapsulant materials, which fosters both growth and creativity in this market. The transformation of this sector has been swift, initially centered around EVA sheets as the main encapsulant for popular crystalline silicon modules. However, with the emergence of newer cell technologies such as N-type, TOPCon, and heterojunction (HJT), the drawbacks of EVA including potential-induced degradation (PID), yellow discoloration from UV exposure, and slower lamination processes prompted a quicker shift to polyolefin elastomer (POE) encapsulants. POE provided improved electrical resistivity, superior moisture resistance, and was suitable for bifacial modules, thus becoming preferred among high-end module series. Chinese manufacturers such as LONGi, Jinko, Trina, and JA Solar have been crucial in influencing encapsulation practices, requiring fast-cure POE options and films with high light transmission to enhance production speed in large-capacity gigafactories. This demand for efficient manufacturing has encouraged encapsulant makers to design materials with quicker curing times, allowing for rapid lamination without sacrificing adhesion or long-term reliability. The growing popularity of bifacial and large-format modules necessitated encapsulants with excellent optical clarity, improved UV resistance, and anti-PID properties, making encapsulants vital for enhancing module performance. The research and development efforts within China’s encapsulation industry are also driven by needs for cost-effectiveness and sustainability. Top suppliers are focusing on formulations for recyclable encapsulants to support circular economy initiatives and to comply with stricter environmental rules for both domestic and international markets. Concurrently, bifacial optimization improving light absorption on the back side while ensuring electrical insulation has emerged as an important area, particularly for utility-scale projects that use bifacial modules on trackers. China's encapsulation market illustrates both its manufacturing superiority and its ambition to incorporate advanced materials technology into large-scale production.

According to the research report ""China Solar Encapsulation Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the China Solar Encapsulation market is anticipated to grow at more than 6.87% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The solar encapsulation sector in China is influenced by significant domestic requirements and its pivotal position as the global center for module exports, making it the most prominent and impactful market globally. On one hand, China’s vast internal installations especially large utility projects in regions like Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Qinghai, as well as rapidly expanding urban rooftop initiatives—drive ongoing demand for encapsulants. On the other hand, being the largest exporter of solar modules, China’s encapsulation market is closely linked to the necessities of international clients from Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific. This dual demand creates consistent growth opportunities and establishes encapsulants as a critical segment in the supply chain of China's solar leadership. A key trend transforming the encapsulation industry in China is the swift uptake of POE films for N-type cells and glass-glass modules, which are increasingly favored for high-efficiency bifacial solutions. Glass-glass systems, gaining popularity for their robustness and efficiency, necessitate encapsulants that provide excellent moisture resistance, UV durability, and strong adhesion. While EVA remains in use for budget-sensitive markets, POE is expanding rapidly to meet both local utility projects and the high-performance module segment driven by exports. The competitive environment includes numerous prominent Chinese encapsulant producers, several of whom have evolved into global exporters supplying top module OEMs such as LONGi, Jinko, Trina, and JA Solar. These manufacturers not only support local projects but also strategically adapt their offerings to fit international market needs. There are considerable opportunities to grow exports as worldwide module demand rises under net-zero initiatives and grid decarbonization goals. Encapsulation providers that can offer high-quality, affordable films are in a strong position to capitalize on this global demand. Compliance is vital for gaining market access.

In the solar encapsulation sector in China by materials is divided into Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS),Ionomer and Polyolefin by materials is divided into Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS),Ionomer and Polyolefin, the categorization by materials showcases a layered interaction influenced by cost, efficiency, and application purpose. EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) continues to be the leading encapsulant, particularly in budget-sensitive areas and extensive solar farms. Its low cost, proven compatibility in processing, and years of practical application make it the go-to option for initiatives where initial expenses are crucial. EVA is still prevalent in installations involving conventional crystalline silicon panels, especially in inland areas characterized by arid conditions, where its effectiveness as a moisture barrier is less challenged. Nonetheless, issues such as the risk of yellowing, release of acetic acid, and PID (Potential Induced Degradation) are prompting a transition towards more advanced materials in premium applications. The primary growth factor is POE (Polyolefin Elastomer), which has emerged as the preferred material for bifacial modules and innovative N-type cell designs like TOPCon and HJT. POE’s excellent resistance to moisture, electrical insulation capabilities, and durability against UV light enable the modules to have extended lifespans and enhanced reliability, especially in difficult climates like China’s coastal regions and damp southern areas. The increased popularity of glass-glass module designs, becoming commonplace in utility projects, aligns seamlessly with POE’s advantages, further boosting its acceptance. Chinese manufacturers of encapsulants are rapidly expanding their POE production to accommodate this change, while international suppliers also vie for high-end module contracts. At the higher end, ionomer-based encapsulants are increasingly preferred, particularly in specialized modules where robustness, optical clarity, and mechanical strength are essential.

In the China solar energy sector by technology is divided into Crystalline Silicon Solar and Thin-Film Solar, crystalline silicon (c-Si) is the leading choice for large solar projects because it has advanced technology, operates efficiently, and is known for its durability over time. As the biggest solar market in the world, China relies significantly on crystalline silicon modules for major developments, where large panel formats and government support promote high efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Crystalline silicon solar cells, which include both monocrystalline and multicrystalline types, achieve conversion efficiencies usually ranging from 20% to 24%. This makes them well-suited for projects that need a lot of land and are connected to the grid, where energy production over time is a priority. Meanwhile, thin-film technologies like cadmium telluride (CdTe) and perovskite solar cells are gaining interest for certain uses, especially where lightweight modules or flexible designs are beneficial. CdTe, developed by companies such as First Solar, is known for having lower material expenses and quicker energy returns; however, its efficiency tends to be lower compared to c-Si. In contrast, perovskite solar cells have remarkable potential for great efficiency at lower production costs and can be designed to work alongside silicon in tandem setups, exceeding traditional c-Si performance. Despite this, issues related to stability, scalability, and long-term reliability present hurdles for using perovskites in larger projects. In China, research and experimental projects are currently investigating CdTe and perovskite thin films, usually focusing on installations like rooftops or floating systems, where standard c-Si isn't the best option. With policy support, a local supply of materials, and swift advancements in perovskite and CdTe technologies, thin-film PV is slowly being seen as an alternative complementing rather than replacing crystalline silicon.

The solar industry by application is divided into Ground-mounted, Building-integrated photovoltaic, Floating photovoltaic and Others (Automotive, Construction, and Electronics) features various segments that influence deployment patterns both globally and within China. Large-scale ground-mounted projects continue to be the core of utility-level solar energy, benefiting from cost efficiency, high performance, and extensive land availability. These setups, frequently surpassing hundreds of megawatts, play a crucial role in achieving national energy objectives and reducing carbon emissions, especially in areas with plenty of land and strong connections to the power grid. On the other hand, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) are swiftly growing in metropolitan areas, where rooftop area and architectural compatibility are essential. BIPV enables solar panels to substitute traditional building materials, like roofs or façades, producing surfaces that generate power while also looking good. This sector is thriving in densely populated cities with robust renewable energy initiatives, fostering localized energy production and savings. Floating photovoltaics (FPV) have also surfaced as a leading trend worldwide, especially in nations with scarce land or significant water reservoir options. Floating PV minimizes land use disputes, improves module cooling by being in contact with water, and can boost energy output. China, which possesses extensive water reservoirs and hydropower facilities, has taken the lead in implementing FPV. At the same time, the blend of solar energy and electric vehicles (EVs) is gaining popularity, as integrated solar solutions such as solar carports, PV-enabled EV charging stations, and solar panels on vehicles facilitate eco-friendly transportation while lowering dependence on the power grid. This particular sector is growing quickly with the global rise of EVs, providing a decentralized power source that combines mobility with renewable energy production.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Solar Encapsulation Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Materials
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
• Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
• Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB)
• Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)
• Ionomer
• Polyolefin

By Technology
• Crystalline Silicon Solar
• Thin-Film Solar

By Application
• Ground-mounted
• Building-integrated photovoltaic
• Floating photovoltaic
• Others (Automotive, Construction, and Electronics) Show more