PUBLISHED April 28, 2026
Record-Breaking Export Month
According to “China’s solar exports reach gigantic record in March as energy crisis bites” published by Climate Change News, China exported solar panels, cells, and wafers capable of generating 68 gigawatts (GW) in March 2026. The report said this was equivalent to Spain’s entire installed solar capacity and marked the highest monthly export volume ever recorded.
Exports More Than Doubled in One Month
March shipments were more than double February levels and 49% above the previous record set in August 2025. The scale of the jump shows how quickly global demand can respond when energy markets become unstable and pricing conditions change.
Energy Crisis Drove Urgent Demand
A major factor behind the surge was the global energy crisis linked to the Iran war and disruptions to oil and gas supplies. Countries facing higher fossil fuel costs increasingly turned to solar as a faster and more secure alternative source of energy.
he article also noted that Chinese exporters rushed shipments before the end of an export tax rebate on April 1, a move that increased solar panel costs by around 9%. This encouraged buyers to place large orders before prices rose.
The article also noted that Chinese exporters rushed shipments before the end of an export tax rebate on April 1, a move that increased solar panel costs by around 9%. This encouraged buyers to place large orders before prices rose.
Around three-quarters of the increase came from exports to Asia and Africa. Chinese solar exports to Africa reached 10GW, while exports to Asia doubled to 39GW in March. These regions were among the most affected by higher imported fuel costs.
The report highlighted especially strong demand from India and Nigeria. Chinese solar exports to India rose 141% compared with February, while exports to Nigeria jumped 519%, reflecting accelerating solar deployment and growing local assembly ambitions.
The March figures underline China’s dominant role in the global renewable energy supply chain. If high oil and gas prices persist, demand for Chinese solar products could remain elevated throughout 2026, giving China an even stronger position in the global energy transition.
Around three-quarters of the increase came from exports to Asia and Africa. Chinese solar exports to Africa reached 10GW, while exports to Asia doubled to 39GW in March. These regions were among the most affected by higher imported fuel costs.
The report highlighted especially strong demand from India and Nigeria. Chinese solar exports to India rose 141% compared with February, while exports to Nigeria jumped 519%, reflecting accelerating solar deployment and growing local assembly ambitions.
The March figures underline China’s dominant role in the global renewable energy supply chain. If high oil and gas prices persist, demand for Chinese solar products could remain elevated throughout 2026, giving China an even stronger position in the global energy transition.
