Di Yi Cai Jing·2025-05-11 12:06Core Viewpoint - The photovoltaic industry is facing significant challenges due to a decline in demand following a surge in installations, leading to a drop in prices for silicon wafers and batteries, with production cuts in May falling short of expectations [1][2][4]. Price Trends - The price of N-type silicon wafers has seen a substantial decline, with the largest weekly drop of 13.5% recorded recently, bringing prices below levels seen in Q4 of the previous year [1][2]. - Specific prices include N-type G10L at 1.01 yuan/piece (down 9.82% week-on-week), N-type G12R at 1.12 yuan/piece (down 13.85%), and N-type G12 at 1.35 yuan/piece (down 7.53%) [2][3]. Production and Demand Dynamics - The decline in silicon wafer prices is primarily attributed to a significant drop in downstream demand post-holiday, compounded by insufficient production cuts in the battery sector [3][4]. - Battery production is expected to decrease by 9% in May, with many manufacturers maintaining high operational efficiency, which may not sufficiently alleviate price pressures [3][5]. Financial Health of Companies - Despite a reduction in losses in Q1, many companies in the photovoltaic supply chain continue to struggle, with 18 out of 21 firms reporting losses after adjustments [5][6]. - The median asset-liability ratio for these companies has risen to 73.27%, indicating increasing financial strain [5][6]. Future Outlook - The effectiveness of production cuts is deemed crucial for stabilizing prices, as the industry relies on self-regulation to prevent further declines [4][6]. - Industry insiders suggest that clearer transparency in manufacturing costs could help align prices with production expenses, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of production cuts [6].