Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-08-05 11:45Core Viewpoint - The increase in silicon wafer prices reflects a rebound in raw material polysilicon prices, with manufacturers pricing to avoid losses rather than competing for sales [1][2]. Group 1: Price Trends - The average price of N-type G10L monocrystalline silicon wafers increased by 9.09% week-on-week to 1.2 yuan per piece, while N-type G12R and G12 wafers saw increases of 8.00% and 7.64%, respectively [2]. - The overall increase in silicon wafer prices is attributed to rising raw material costs and increased purchasing orders from downstream [1][2]. Group 2: Industry Dynamics - The industry is experiencing a shift where pure silicon wafer manufacturers are focusing on not pursuing high operating rates or accumulating inventory, instead opting for production based on sales [2][3]. - The overall operating rate in the industry remained stable, with major companies operating at 50% and 40% rates, while integrated companies operated between 50% and 80% [2]. Group 3: Cost Implications - The rise in polysilicon prices from 35,000 yuan/ton to 45,000 yuan/ton is expected to increase costs in the component manufacturing sector by only 0.02 to 0.03 yuan/W, which is not significant [3]. - If polysilicon prices were to reach 60,000 yuan/ton, it would raise component costs by approximately 0.05 yuan/W, which downstream manufacturers would struggle to absorb [3]. Group 4: Market Outlook - The National Energy Administration reported that new renewable energy installations reached 268 million kilowatts in the first half of the year, a 99.3% year-on-year increase, with solar power installations doubling compared to the previous year [3]. - The forecast for solar installation capacity in 2025 has been adjusted upward to between 570 GW and 630 GW, indicating continued growth in the sector [7]. Group 5: Policy and Regulation - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has initiated energy-saving inspections for the polysilicon industry, which may limit outdated production capacity and concentrate production among leading companies [4]. - Policies are in place to prevent sales below cost, which helps stabilize price floors in the market [4]. Group 6: Company Performance - Longi Green Energy expects a net loss of 2.4 to 2.8 billion yuan for the first half of the year, although it has managed to significantly reduce losses compared to the previous year [6]. - Other major companies, such as Tongwei and JA Solar, also anticipate substantial losses, indicating a challenging market environment despite some segments beginning to show profitability [6][7].