An increasing number of the top 20 solar photovoltaic (PV) module suppliers are shifting their strategic focus within the industry, by increasing shipments for dedicated in-house projects. Previously championed by First Solar, SunPower, and Canadian Solar in recent years, this model provides PV manufacturers with the flexibility to choose between shipping product for in-house projects, or to third parties that use the modules for their own projects.
According to Solarbuzz, 17 of the top 20 solar PV module suppliers to the industry now have dedicated project business units or subsidiaries that are tasked with PV systems deployment. Some China suppliers are currently spinning out downstream business units in preparation for initial public offerings (IPOs).
"During the third quarter, the top 20 solar PV module suppliers, which have approximately two-thirds of global demand, shipped almost 8GW of modules," according to Ray Lian, senior analyst at Solarbuzz. "This quarterly shipment volume marks yet another record for the top 20 supplier group, despite increased shipment levels now for in-house projects."
Solar PV project activities have been a key focus for a select group of leading module makers in recent years, in particular First Solar and SunPower. Revenues from downstream business activities have been instrumental in helping to navigate through the industry downturn, when margins from pure-play manufacturing were negatively impacted due to rapidly declining module prices.
However, revenue recognition from project activity using in-house modules provides an additional level of accounting conditions that need to be satisfied, compared to simply shipping product to third party developers. During 2014, however, this flexible approach has seen greater popularity, in particular from leading China and Japan suppliers, with the scope for future revenues upon project completion.
"Having a strong presence in downstream project development also allows companies to benefit from favorable solar PV incentives available in domestic and international markets," added Lian. "Similar to dedicated project developers, this allows the option to hold projects, spin-off the assets into a yield company, or simply sell the projects upon completion to institutional investors."
Two of the leading China module suppliers in recent years, Jinko Solar and ET Solar, have now separated out downstream business units in preparation for an IPO. Other leading module suppliers in Japan, including Sharp Solar and Panasonic, have also announced plans to adjust solar business models to become energy solution providers.
According to Lian, "Approximately 1.8GW of modules are expected to be shipped this year for internal projects activities by just four companies: Trina Solar, Yingli Green Energy, Jinko Solar, and JA Solar. While this will result in delays in recognizing revenues for this portion of module shipments, expansion into downstream projects business is expected to offer added value and incremental revenue streams in the coming years."
