Top 15 Solar Panel Manufacturers: 2025 Global Rankings

13 min readJan 21, 2025

The solar industry in 2025 is thriving, with global PV module demand expected to reach 650–680 GW — a 10% growth from last year. Leading manufacturers are advancing solar technology with innovations like n-type cells, higher efficiency, and eco-friendly practices. Here’s a quick look at the top players:

Key Highlights:

Tongwei Solar: Largest manufacturer with 140 GW solar cell and 85 GW module capacity; record-breaking efficiencies (26.49% for cells).
JA Solar: Known for DeepBlue 4.0 X modules, offering up to 22.3% efficiency.
Aiko Solar: Focuses on high-efficiency solar cells with sustainable practices.
LONGi Solar: Leader in hydrogen energy and TOPCon technology with 24.06% efficiency.
Jinko Solar: Achieved 25.25% efficiency with N-type TOPCon cells.
Canadian Solar: 82 GW total shipments by 2023; strong R&D investments.
Trina Solar: 95 GW capacity with modules reaching 23.6% efficiency.

Quick Comparison Table:

This competitive landscape highlights how manufacturers are innovating to meet rising global demand while integrating sustainable practices. Dive into the article for a detailed breakdown of each company.

2024 Best Solar Panel Comparison

Tongwei Solar retained its position as the world’s largest solar panel manufacturer in 2025, thanks to its massive 140GW annual solar cell production capacity and 85GW module production capacity . These figures highlight the company’s dominance in the global market.

A key factor behind Tongwei’s success is its vertically integrated business model. This strategy covers every step of the process, from polysilicon production to module assembly . By controlling the entire supply chain, the company ensures high-quality standards while keeping costs in check.

Tongwei’s focus on research and development has also been a game-changer. With over 2,344 patents, they achieved record-breaking efficiencies in 2024–26.49% for solar cells and 24.63% for modules . These milestones underline their efforts to advance solar technology.

The company is also known for its creative ‘Fishery & PV Integration’ projects. These initiatives combine solar energy production with aquaculture, making efficient use of land while supporting local ecosystems .

Tongwei’s leadership and forward-thinking strategies continue to set the bar for the solar industry.

JA Solar has established itself as a key player in the solar industry, ranking at the top of Wood Mackenzie’s 2023 PV module manufacturer list. With a 57 GW production capacity, the company demonstrates impressive manufacturing strength, though it operates on a smaller scale compared to some rivals.

“JA Solar remains committed to innovation and sustainability, continuously improving module efficiency while reducing environmental impact.”

JA Solar’s products are installed in over 120 countries, and its manufacturing facilities are located in China, Malaysia, and Vietnam. This global presence allows the company to serve a wide range of markets, from residential rooftops to large-scale solar farms .

The company’s focus on ESG principles has earned it recognition for its efforts in sustainability among Chinese energy firms . This dedication to environmental responsibility continues to influence the industry’s direction.

Aiko Solar has made a name for itself as a key player in the global solar industry, focusing on producing high-efficiency solar cells and modules. With substantial investments in R&D, the company has achieved impressive efficiency gains, backed by state-of-the-art facilities and advanced production techniques.

What sets Aiko Solar apart is its integrated manufacturing approach, which gives it an edge over competitors. By prioritizing efficiency and maintaining strict quality controls, the company competes strongly with major industry names like Tongwei and JA Solar.

Aiko Solar blends technological progress with environmentally conscious manufacturing through:

These efforts align with the industry’s increasing focus on ESG principles, positioning Aiko Solar as a leader in advancing sustainable energy. Their dedication goes beyond just creating products — it extends to ensuring environmental responsibility throughout their manufacturing process.

“Aiko Solar’s innovations continue to shape the future of solar technology.”

As the company pushes forward with its developments, it sets a benchmark for others, including competitors like LONGi Solar, to raise the bar for the entire industry.

Here’s a snapshot of their key performance metrics:

In 2021, LONGi Solar expanded into hydrogen energy, highlighting their focus on renewable energy solutions . This move aligns with a broader industry trend where companies are diversifying into multiple clean energy sectors to address growing global needs.

LONGi Solar’s ambitious growth strategies and focus on advancing technology ensure their strong position in the renewable energy sector. While they lead the way, other companies like Jinko Solar are also making headway in solar advancements.

In 2023, Jinko Solar set a new benchmark with their N-type TOPCon solar cell, achieving 25.25% efficiency . This accomplishment places them alongside leading names like JA Solar and LONGi Solar in pushing the boundaries of solar technology.

Their product range caters to residential, commercial, and utility-scale installations . Notably, their bifacial modules are praised for delivering strong performance while keeping costs in check, maximizing returns on investment for solar projects.

The company also emphasizes sustainability in its operations. Being listed among China’s top 100 ESG companies reflects their leadership in eco-friendly manufacturing . With 40 GW of module shipments in 2023 and operations spanning over 30 countries, Jinko Solar continues to make a global impact.

Their efforts are part of a larger movement to deliver affordable, high-efficiency solar solutions worldwide. While Jinko Solar leads the charge, competitors like Canadian Solar are also making notable advancements in renewable energy.

In 2022, Canadian Solar shipped over 21.1 GW of solar modules worldwide, bringing its total to an impressive 82 GW by 2023. Operating across more than 20 countries, the company handles every stage of production — from solar cells to complete systems — ensuring consistent quality in its products.

Canadian Solar is widely recognized for its high-efficiency solar modules and energy storage solutions. The company stays competitive by heavily investing in research and development, consistently improving its product offerings while keeping production costs under control.

The company also prioritizes sustainability by implementing advanced environmental management systems across its facilities. These efforts aim to minimize the carbon footprint associated with solar panel production. Backed by a solid financial foundation, Canadian Solar continues to expand its production capacity and explore new technologies, ensuring its growth in the competitive solar market.

As a global leader in renewable energy, Canadian Solar is helping to meet the increasing demand for clean energy solutions. Alongside other key players like Trina Solar, the company is shaping the future of the renewable energy sector with its forward-thinking strategies and global reach.

Trina Solar is a major player in the solar industry, with a projected production capacity of 95 GW by 2025. The company has established itself as a leader in efficiency and environmentally conscious practices, consistently setting high standards for the industry .

“Trina Solar is committed to leading the way in solar innovation and sustainability.” — Gao Jifan, Chairman and CEO of Trina Solar, Trina Solar Annual Report 2024

The company prioritizes quality control across its supply chain, aiming to lower system costs and energy production expenses. Trina Solar also incorporates eco-friendly practices, including supply chain optimization and reducing its carbon footprint, setting an example for responsible manufacturing. Their dedication to quality is backed by UL recognition and high standards in environmental and social governance .

While Trina Solar continues to push boundaries in solar technology and eco-conscious practices, the next manufacturer, First Solar, offers a distinct perspective on advancing solar energy solutions.

First Solar focuses on thin-film PV technology, carving out a strong position in the utility-scale solar market .

While First Solar continues to refine its thin-film technology, competitors like Q CELLS are advancing crystalline silicon solutions, driving further innovation in the solar industry.

Q CELLS operates on a global scale, with manufacturing facilities spread across seven countries. The company employs its Q.ANTUM technology, a PERC-based advancement, to deliver high-performance solar solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale needs . This technology boosts energy output even in challenging conditions like low-light or high-temperature environments, making Q CELLS a standout player in the solar market.

Q CELLS offers a wide range of products tailored for different applications, from homes to large-scale utility projects. With strategically located manufacturing facilities, the company ensures a reliable supply chain and responsive customer support . This global reach allows them to provide steady supply and technical expertise for solar projects of any size.

The company invests heavily in research and development to create solar panels with better efficiency and durability . These efforts play a key role in advancing renewable energy adoption worldwide, aligning with environmental and ESG-focused goals.

By prioritizing technological progress and maintaining high standards in manufacturing, Q CELLS has cemented its position as a trusted name in the solar industry . Their focus on innovation and performance optimization makes them a go-to choice for a variety of solar applications around the world.

While Q CELLS continues to refine its PERC-based technology, competitors like Risen Energy are pushing boundaries with high-power density modules, adding more variety to the solar technology landscape.

Risen Energy prioritizes reducing waste and using energy-efficient manufacturing processes, showcasing its commitment to sustainability. The company’s modules are certified by IEC and UL, ensuring reliability and strong performance standards. Despite tough competition from larger manufacturers, Risen Energy has carved out a space for itself by focusing on efficient and environmentally conscious solutions.

Their research and development efforts focus on three main goals:

Enhancing module efficiency
Lowering production costs
Developing new solar technologies

To address market challenges, Risen Energy diversifies its product offerings and improves manufacturing efficiency. The company also provides robust customer support, including technical assistance and warranty services, which helps strengthen its position in the market.

SunPower, based in San Jose, California, specializes in producing high-efficiency solar panels for residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets. Known for their 22.8% efficiency rating, SunPower panels are designed to generate maximum power even in limited roof spaces, making them a top choice for installations where space is tight .

The X-Series and E-Series panels stand out for their advanced cell technology, which ensures excellent performance even in shaded areas or under high temperatures. These panels come with a 25-year warranty that covers product quality, power output, and workmanship — five years longer than the industry average.

SunPower is also focused on sustainability, aiming to power all its operations with renewable energy by 2025. Their production process emphasizes energy efficiency and recycling, reflecting their dedication to environmentally responsible practices.

Although SunPower panels come with a higher price tag, their unmatched efficiency and durability often result in greater value over time. By combining high-performance panels with advanced monitoring systems, the company continues to lead in solar technology innovation.

While SunPower shines in delivering high-efficiency solutions, Seraphim Solar emphasizes scalability and affordability, catering to different needs within the solar energy market.

Their S4 half-cell module stands out with an impressive 23.45% efficiency rate , showcasing the company’s focus on advancing solar technology. This progress is driven by a dedicated R&D team that consistently works on new patents and product improvements.

Seraphim Solar offers products designed for residential, commercial, and utility-scale applications, meeting a variety of energy needs. The company emphasizes efficiency and sustainable manufacturing practices, which align with their mission to support renewable energy growth. Their commitment to quality is backed by international certifications, ensuring dependable performance across all their products.

To stay ahead in the competitive solar market, Seraphim Solar is ramping up production and investing in cutting-edge technologies. These efforts mirror the industry’s broader trend of balancing efficiency, scalability, and eco-friendly practices.

While Seraphim Solar continues to grow and innovate, companies like REC Group are also contributing fresh approaches to solar technology, enriching the industry’s landscape.

Founded in 1996, REC Group has established itself as a key player in solar technology, recognized for its forward-thinking products and focus on sustainability. With an annual production capacity of 1.8 GW, the company has shipped over 40 million solar panels globally . Although its output is smaller compared to larger manufacturers like Tongwei and JA Solar, REC Group stands out by targeting niche markets and leveraging advanced technology.

The Alpha Pure-R series highlights REC Group’s dedication to creating high-performance solar solutions with a focus on sustainability. Their manufacturing operations in Norway and Singapore are designed to produce top-quality panels while keeping environmental impact low. Meanwhile, their research and development efforts aim to further improve efficiency and sustainability.

To date, REC Group’s installations have generated over 13 TWh of clean energy , showcasing their contribution to the global push for renewable energy. By combining cutting-edge technology with eco-conscious practices, REC Group delivers efficient products while striving to reduce its environmental footprint.

Next up is GCL System Integration, which focuses on scaling renewable energy solutions while keeping costs competitive.

GCL System Integration (GCLSI) has made a name for itself in the global solar industry. With advanced technology and a global reach, the company is driving the adoption of solar energy on a large scale .

At the 2023 SNEC PV Power Expo in Shanghai, GCLSI introduced its latest high-efficiency module series, boasting 22.5% efficiency. This is well above the industry average of 20–21%, putting them in strong competition with major players like JA Solar and LONGi Solar .

Their facilities meet ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility . GCLSI’s approach to eco-friendly manufacturing aligns with global efforts toward carbon neutrality.

While GCLSI scales its global high-efficiency solutions, FuturaSun offers a distinct focus on niche markets and design innovation within the solar sector.

FuturaSun, an Italian solar manufacturer, has carved out a strong position in the European solar market. With an annual production capacity exceeding 1 GW, the company is scaling operations to meet growing global demand .

FuturaSun’s solar modules, achieving efficiencies of up to 22.5%, are designed to perform well even in tough conditions like high temperatures and low-light environments . The company prioritizes sustainability in both product design and manufacturing processes.

“FuturaSun is committed to delivering high-quality solar panels that not only meet but exceed customer expectations.” — Alessandro Barin, CEO of FuturaSun, FuturaSun Corporate Website.

Their manufacturing facilities align with global sustainability standards, incorporating advanced environmental management systems. The bifacial modules, which can capture energy from both direct and reflected sunlight, offer enhanced energy output in practical applications. This technical advantage, combined with a strong European presence, positions FuturaSun as a key competitor in the solar industry.

Through ongoing R&D efforts and patented technologies, FuturaSun continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing solar solutions. As the company expands its reach beyond Europe, its specialized focus aligns with the global demand for diverse and cutting-edge solar technologies.

Comparison Table of Top Manufacturers

Here’s a breakdown of leading solar manufacturers, highlighting their production capabilities, panel efficiency, and eco-friendly practices as of 2025.

ManufacturerProduction Capacity (GW/year)Panel EfficiencyKey TechnologiesSustainability Highlights

From carbon-neutral operations to advanced recycling systems, these manufacturers are taking varied steps to prioritize environmental responsibility. This comparison highlights the dynamic and competitive landscape of the solar industry, showcasing its focus on renewable energy advancements.

Conclusion

The global solar panel manufacturing industry in 2025 showcases impressive technological progress and a strong focus on renewable energy. Companies like Tongwei Solar are setting new standards with advancements in efficiency. These developments highlight the sector’s ongoing efforts to combine innovation with environmental responsibility.

Blending Technology with Environmental Goals

Top manufacturers are successfully integrating advanced technology with eco-friendly practices. The adoption of n-type technology not only improves efficiency but also aligns with the industry’s increasing focus on environmental responsibility. This shift reflects broader commitments to sustainable practices across the solar sector.

What This Means for the Market

As competition heats up, these trends are set to reshape the renewable energy market. With a focus on research, production efficiency, and sustainability, the solar industry is well-positioned to support the world’s growing renewable energy needs. The combination of increased capacity, better efficiency, and responsible practices promises a bright future for global solar energy adoption.

FAQs

Who is the largest manufacturer of solar panels in the world?

What are the top 3 solar panel companies?

The top three manufacturers based on production capacity are:

For market capitalization, companies like NextEra Energy, First Solar, and Enphase Energy dominate .

Who is the largest producer of solar panels?

China accounts for a staggering 86% of global solar panel production, far surpassing Europe and North America, which each contribute only 2% . This overwhelming share heavily influences global supply chains as solar energy demand continues to grow .

These details shed light on the major players and production trends shaping the solar industry today.