Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **China Utilities & Renewables Sector**: The sector is experiencing significant developments, particularly in offshore wind and energy storage systems (ESS) installations. The domestic offshore wind turbine procurement capacity reached **8.42GW** in 2025, with **Mingyang** leading at **2.1GW** and **Goldwind** at **1.2GW** [2][13]. Core Insights - **Offshore Wind Market**: Mingyang's strong performance in offshore wind turbine order intakes is noted, with a significant share price rally attributed to positive sentiment from commercial aerospace and space solar developments [2][14]. - **Energy Storage Systems**: China's ESS installations surged **73% year-over-year**, reaching **189.5GWh** in 2025, indicating a shift towards independent storage solutions. **Sungrow** is highlighted as well-positioned to benefit from policy reforms and rising demand in high-end markets [3][16]. - **Solar Industry Performance**: The A-share PV Industry Index outperformed the market, driven by developments in space solar and commercial aerospace. Companies like **Daqo**, **GCL Tech**, and **Orient Cables** are recommended for their strong earnings growth prospects [3][15]. Company-Specific Insights - **Top Picks**: - **GCL Tech (3800 HK)**: Rated Overweight (OW) with a price target of **1.7**, indicating a **50% upside** due to its cost leadership and expected EBITDA turnaround [8]. - **Daqo (DQ US)**: OW rating with a price target of **38.0**, offering favorable risk/reward dynamics with a net cash position of **US$2.2 billion** [8]. - **Orient Cables (603606 CH)**: OW rating with a price target of **68.0**, benefiting from offshore wind demand and stable profitability [8]. - **Sungrow (300274 CH)**: OW rating, expected to benefit from high-end market demand and policy reforms [16]. - **Cautious Stance on Gas Utilities**: The gas utilities sector is facing challenges such as weak industrial volume growth and limited margin improvement. **Kunlun Energy** is the only company with proactive capital recycling strategies, making it a top pick, while **China Resources Gas** is viewed cautiously due to slow buyback progress and weak operating trends [4][17]. Additional Important Insights - **Market Sentiment**: The overall market sentiment is buoyed by developments in space solar and commercial aerospace, with significant stock price movements observed in related companies [3][15]. - **Stock Selection Strategy**: Investors are advised to focus on companies with strong earnings growth and recovery outlooks, particularly in the renewable energy sector [3][15]. - **Performance Metrics**: The report includes detailed valuation comparisons and performance metrics for various companies in the utilities and renewables sector, highlighting the financial health and market positions of key players [21]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights and recommendations from the conference call, focusing on the dynamics within the China utilities and renewables sector, key company performances, and strategic investment recommendations.

Summary of China Solar Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call focused on the China solar industry, particularly the dynamics of solar cell pricing and profitability trends in January 2026 [1][5][6]. Key Highlights - **Cell Price and Silver Cost Increase**: - There was a significant increase in silver paste prices for solar cells, with increases of 112% for Back-side, 34% for Front-side Busbar, and 46% for Front-side Finger in January 2026. This follows an average increase of 54% in Q4 2025 [5]. - The increase in silver costs has raised production costs for cells/modules by approximately Rmb0.03/W month-over-month, with silver now accounting for about 20% of total module production costs, up from 7% in Q3 2025 and 11% in Q4 2025 [5]. - **Solar Installation Performance**: - China’s solar installations in December 2025 were reported at 40GW, reflecting an 82% month-over-month increase but a 43% year-over-year decrease. The total for FY25 reached 315GW, which is a 14% year-over-year increase, exceeding Goldman Sachs' estimate of 283GW [5][6]. - **Market Demand and Supply Dynamics**: - The supply/demand ratio improved to 129% in January from 139% in December, indicating a slight tightening in the market despite weak transaction volumes and a 20% month-over-month decline in cell production [5][10]. - Producer-side inventory days increased to 62 days in January from 58 days in December, suggesting a buildup of inventory amid weaker demand [5][13]. Pricing Trends - **Price Forecasts**: - For Q1 2026, prices for cells and modules are expected to increase by 31% and 5% respectively, driven by higher silver costs and an export rush ahead of tax rebate removals starting April 1, 2026. However, a retreat of 24% and 8% is anticipated in Q2 2026 due to Tier 1 adoption of cost reduction technologies [6]. - Upstream prices for Poly and Wafer are projected to decline by 11% quarter-over-quarter in Q1 and Q2 2026 due to anti-monopoly measures and seasonal low electricity costs [6]. Sector Outlook - **Regulatory Environment**: - The ongoing "anti-monopoly" regulations and "anti-involution" campaigns are expected to influence industry pricing, aligning with Tier 1 cost reduction progress amid demand weakness in 2026 [6]. - **Investment Recommendations**: - The report suggests a cautious approach towards certain segments, recommending a "Buy" on high-efficiency Tier 1 module players like Longi and a "Neutral" stance on low-cost Tier 1 Poly players like GCL Tech. Conversely, a "Sell" rating is advised for Rod Poly (Daqo ADR/A, Tongwei), Wafer (TZE), Equipment (Shenzhen S.C., Maxwell), and Glass (Flat A/H, Xinyi Solar) [6]. Additional Insights - **Profitability Metrics**: - Cash profitability for cells/modules improved in January, while it deteriorated for glass/film segments. The average cash gross profit margin (GPM) for Tier 1 Poly was reported at 38%, with a notable increase in profitability metrics across various segments [7][9]. - **Market Sentiment**: - The overall sentiment in the solar market remains cautious, with a focus on company-specific cost reduction strategies and the impact of rising silver prices on the industry cost curve [6]. This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the conference call, providing insights into the current state and future outlook of the China solar industry.

23 January 2026 China Solar Equities The new frontier: Space-based solar power China From science fiction to reality: There's a hot new theme in the global solar industry: solar panels in space. What's behind this is a combination of recent advances in commercial satellites and the race to put AI data centers (AIDCs) in space. Elon Musk said he plans to build 100GW solar production capacity (Reuters, 23 Jan 2026), following his comment in an earlier interview that he expects 100GW of new AIDCs to be deliver ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Sector**: Global Alternative Energy - **Outlook**: Improved investor sentiment driven by increased policy certainty in the US and global electricity load growth [2][7] Core Insights - **Load Growth**: - Load growth has been stagnant at approximately 0.5% annually over the past decade, but estimates have recently risen to around 2% or higher for the next five years due to AI-driven data center demand and broader electrification trends [5][6] - This growth is expected to exert upward pressure on power pricing, benefiting baseload power sources such as gas turbines, nuclear, and renewables paired with battery energy storage systems (BESS) [5][6] - **Policy Environment**: - Increased clarity in US renewable energy policy through the passage of significant legislation, though risks remain, including potential investigations and tariff decisions that could impact solar costs [5][6] - The Department of Commerce's investigations and permitting issues for solar and wind projects on federal land present uncertainties [6] Investment Preferences - **Top Picks in Clean Energy**: - **US**: GE Vernova (GEV), Brookfield Renewable (BEP/BEPC), NextPower (NXT), and EVgo (EVGO) [2][12][19] - **Europe**: Siemens Energy (ENR), Vestas (VWS), and Prysmian (PRY) [2][15][17] - **Asia**: Orient Cables (603606 CH), Daqo (DQ), GCL Tech (3800 HK), Arctech (688408 CH), and Sungrow (300274 CH) [2] Market Dynamics - **Solar Market**: - Preference for utility-scale solar over residential due to better positioning regarding policy and economic factors [7] - In China, polysilicon prices have recovered by approximately 50% due to policy interventions, with Daqo and GCL Tech highlighted as strong picks [20] - **Wind Market**: - BNEF forecasts significant growth in global wind installations, with a projected 16% growth in 2026 [17] - Vestas is expected to outperform the European Capital Goods sector due to stable input prices and lower interest rates [17] - **Energy Storage**: - Global energy storage demand exceeded expectations in 2025, with a forecasted 57% increase in battery shipments for 2025 [7] - The forecast for 2026 global ESS installations has been raised by approximately 30% [7] - **Electric Vehicle Charging**: - Sentiment around EV charging remains cautious, with anticipated declines in US EV sales [7] - EVgo is preferred due to its growing customer base and network throughput potential [19] Additional Insights - **Nuclear Fuel Cycle**: - Global nuclear generation is expected to reach record highs, increasing demand for enriched uranium [8] - Centrus Energy (LEU) is noted as a key player, though it faces execution risks [8] - **US Clean Energy Outlook**: - BNEF anticipates a decline in US clean energy build from 2026 to 2028 before returning to modest growth through 2035 [62] - The market is expected to consolidate as larger projects become more complex, favoring tier-1 developers [63] - **Residential Solar Market**: - A projected decline of 15-20% in US residential solar installations in 2026 due to the expiration of certain tax credits [64] - RUN is highlighted as a preferred pick in the residential space due to its visibility in solar lease/PPA qualifications [65] Conclusion - The global alternative energy sector is poised for growth driven by load demand and supportive policies, though challenges remain in the form of regulatory uncertainties and market dynamics. Key investment opportunities exist in diversified companies with strong balance sheets and exposure to emerging technologies.

J P M O R G A N Asia Pacific Equity Research 19 January 2026 China Solar Anti-Involution Key takes from expert and co calls: Uncertainty on timing but not direction; value emerges as -ves get priced in We hosted a solar industry expert call and gathered comments from polysilicon producers last week, with the following takes: 1) The SAMR's probe was triggered by complaints. Poly future price surges after the formation of 'consolidation platform'; 2) consolidated views from expert and companies are +ve bias o ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call discusses the **China Solar Industry**, specifically focusing on the **polysilicon sector** and the implications of the **anti-involution initiative** led by the **State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR)** [1][4]. Core Insights and Arguments - The SAMR rejected the **CPIA's proposal** for a consolidation fund and self-imposed production quotas, citing non-compliance with anti-trust laws, which is seen as a setback for the solar anti-involution initiative [1][3]. - Despite this setback, the outlook remains optimistic, viewing the situation as a **detour rather than a u-turn** due to the high political profile of the initiative [1][4]. - Potential outcomes include government intervention to manage production quotas or the issuance of waivers by senior bureaus [1][5]. - In a worst-case scenario where higher-cost producers go bankrupt, **Daqo** and **GCL Tech** are expected to emerge as winners due to their strong financial positions [1][9]. Important Developments - A meeting was scheduled for **January 6, 2026**, where the SAMR expressed concerns about anti-trust issues and required major polysilicon producers to submit rectification plans by **January 20, 2026** [2][5]. - The establishment of a platform for consolidating polysilicon capacity was noted on **December 9, 2025**, but concerns about anti-trust compliance may hinder its effectiveness [3][5]. Pricing and Cost Insights - The estimated cost for marginal polysilicon producers is around **Rmb 50/kg**, which is slightly below current spot prices, indicating a need for prices to remain above production costs [4][8]. - The cash production costs for major polysilicon producers in 2025 are projected, with **GCL Tech** being the lowest at **Rmb 23.9/kg** and **Daqo** at **Rmb 36.2/kg** [11]. Stock Recommendations - The report maintains an **Overweight (OW)** rating on **Daqo New Energy (DQ US)** and **GCL Tech (3800 HK)**, highlighting their strong balance sheets and competitive positions in the market [9][23]. Risks and Future Considerations - There are rising risks associated with the polysilicon consolidation fund plan due to the SAMR's anti-trust concerns, which may prevent producers from coordinating production and pricing [3][5]. - If the consolidation plan fails, polysilicon producers may continue to compete freely, potentially leading to a price floor at **Rmb 50/kg** without restrictions on production or sales volume [8]. Conclusion - The solar industry in China is navigating significant regulatory challenges, but the long-term outlook remains positive, particularly for financially robust companies like Daqo and GCL Tech. The situation is being closely monitored for further developments regarding government interventions and market dynamics [1][4][9].

Summary of China Clean Tech Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference focused on the **renewable energy sector** in China, particularly the **solar** and **wind** industries, with discussions involving 12 renewable companies and two industry experts [1][2]. Key Insights Pricing Outlook - There is a **bearish outlook** on solar pricing into 2026, with expectations for further price hikes in the **Poly** and **Module** segments, projected to reach **Rmb60-80/kg** and **Rmb0.74/W** respectively, despite current spot prices being **Rmb63/kg** and **Rmb0.685/W** [2][3]. - The **solar installation** forecast for China is expected to decline by **17% year-over-year** to **235GW** in 2026, contrasting with the **-10% to 0%** guidance from solar companies [4][9]. Demand and Inventory Concerns - Downstream operators are showing low acceptance for price hikes due to a decline in renewable on-grid tariffs, leading to a cautious approach towards solar installations [3][13]. - There is a significant increase in inventory days, rising to **60 days** in December 2025 from **30 days** in September 2025, indicating potential cash burn across the industry [3][16]. Production and Cost Dynamics - Tier 1 solar players are planning to upgrade production lines to high-efficiency technologies, with expectations of reduced Poly usage in high-efficiency modules [16]. - The **cost of production** for modules has increased by **Rmb0.3/W** due to rising silver prices, but the adoption of cheaper metal technologies could offset some of these costs [16]. Regulatory Environment - The **anti-monopoly** campaign is expected to have a limited positive impact on pricing, as downstream players may still need to reduce selling prices to maintain shipments amid weak demand [7][19]. - Recent regulatory actions have targeted potential monopolistic practices within the Poly supply chain, requiring companies to submit rectification measures by January 20, 2026 [20]. Market Sentiment - There is a prevailing sentiment of caution among operators regarding price hikes, with many indicating a maximum tolerance of **5%** increase in module prices due to declining tariffs [15]. - The industry is facing a **negative demand cycle**, which is deemed unsustainable, with expectations for R&D-driven cost reductions to consolidate the market towards Tier 1 players [11][16]. Additional Observations - The **solar glass price** has seen a decline of nearly **20%** to **Rmb10.5/sqm**, with expectations of further reductions due to aggressive pricing strategies from Tier 2 players [23]. - The **inventory management** strategies of Tier 1 players are being tested, as they are currently tolerating higher inventory levels due to suspended capacities [24]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights and forecasts discussed during the conference call, highlighting the challenges and dynamics within the Chinese renewable energy sector, particularly in solar energy.

Summary of China Solar Profitability Tracker - November 2025 Industry Overview - The report focuses on the solar industry in China, particularly the dynamics of upstream and downstream segments, including pricing trends and profitability metrics for various solar components [1][3][5]. Key Highlights Pricing and Profitability Trends - Upstream wafer and cell prices declined by an average of 5% in November compared to October, attributed to a 70% increase in inventory in the solar cell segment amid weaker downstream demand [3][5]. - The production across the solar value chain is expected to decline by an average of 6% month-over-month in November, with the poly segment experiencing a significant drop of 16% [3][5]. - Despite a lower production-to-demand ratio of 110% in November (down from 116% in October), producer-side inventory days are projected to increase to 38 days from 33 days [8][10]. Export and Demand Dynamics - Cell and module export volumes decreased by 1% and 24% month-over-month, respectively, primarily due to reduced restocking activities as the overseas peak demand season concludes [3][5]. - The shift in procurement demand from India to Southeast Asia has also impacted export volumes [3]. Market Valuation and Risks - The market is currently pricing in solar component prices at Rmb57/kg for poly, Rmb1.8/pc for wafers, Rmb0.66/w for cells, and Rmb13/sqm for glass, indicating a potential downside risk of 33% for the coverage [3][13]. - The ongoing anti-involution campaign and restrictions on below-cost pricing are expected to only mildly improve the pricing outlook for poly, with downstream players likely needing to reduce selling prices to maintain market share [4]. Profitability Metrics - November's spot price implied cash profitability deteriorated in upstream segments while improving in downstream segments [5][7]. - The average cash gross profit margin (GPM) for Tier 1 poly is reported at 34%, with a decrease of 1 percentage point month-over-month [7]. Additional Insights - The report suggests a preference for investments in film, high-efficiency modules, and granular poly, while advising against investments in glass, rod poly, and certain wafer and equipment manufacturers [4]. - The analysis indicates that normalized profitability in the mid-to-long run is expected to remain low unless there is a reduction in Tier 1 capacity [4]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights from the November 2025 China Solar Profitability Tracker, highlighting the current challenges and dynamics within the solar industry.

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry Focus**: China Renewables, specifically solar energy and energy storage systems (ESS) [2][3][4] Core Insights and Arguments - **Investor Interest**: The primary focus among investors is on solar's anti-involution development and the upgrade (U/G) on Sungrow related to AIDC (Automated Industrial Data Center) ESS use cases [2] - **GCL Tech's Position**: GCL Tech is recognized for its cost and technology leadership in the polysilicon market, although many investors are unaware of its advancements due to the prolonged down-cycle in the poly market [2][4] - **Sungrow's Potential**: There is a consensus among investors that Sungrow could see a re-rating if it strengthens its ties with AIDC, indicating a shift in valuation benchmarks for the company [2][15] - **Offshore Wind Growth**: Discussions highlight a structural growth trend in offshore wind, with Orient Cables being a notable mention [2] Market Dynamics - **Share Price Volatility**: On November 12, 2025, share prices of China solar stocks fell by 2-7%, contrasting with the HSCEI and SHCOMP indices which rose by 1% and 0%, respectively. This decline was attributed to softness in polysilicon futures [3][12] - **Polysilicon Price Trends**: Polysilicon prices have increased by approximately 50% over the last four months, driven by fears of anti-competition law enforcement, despite rising inventory levels due to production controls not yet being implemented [12][13] - **Policy Intervention**: Investors generally agree on the potential for policy intervention in the polysilicon market, especially following a high-profile media report [4][13] Company-Specific Insights - **Daqo, GCL Tech, Sungrow, and Orient Cables**: These companies are preferred picks within the China Renewables sector, all rated as Overweight (OW) [2][40] - **Yangtze Power**: Identified as a defensive name within the sector, also rated OW [2][40] - **Sungrow's Strategic Moves**: Sungrow is exploring new use cases for DC power supply components, which could significantly enhance its valuation if successful [33] Additional Considerations - **Investor Education**: There is a noted lack of understanding among some investors regarding the operational dynamics of ESS and its role in managing electricity demand fluctuations [22] - **PJM Capacity Prices**: The PJM Interconnection has seen a 22% increase in capacity prices for the 2025-2026 auction compared to the previous year, indicating rising demand for energy storage solutions [25][27] - **Future of ESS in China**: China has set a target of 170GW for ESS installations by 2027, highlighting a significant growth opportunity in the sector [38] Conclusion - The conference call provided valuable insights into the dynamics of the China Renewables sector, particularly in solar energy and energy storage. Key companies like GCL Tech and Sungrow are positioned for potential growth, driven by policy developments and market trends. Investors are encouraged to consider the long-term implications of these developments while navigating short-term volatility.

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - **Industry**: China Solar Industry - **Focus**: Polysilicon Supply Consolidation Core Insights and Arguments 1. **Capacity Buyout Consortium**: All 17 polysilicon manufacturers have signed an agreement to establish a capacity buyout consortium, aiming for final establishment by year-end, which is a significant milestone for supply consolidation [1][7] 2. **Excess Capacity Acquisition**: The buyout fund plans to acquire approximately 1.0-1.5 million tons of polysilicon, representing at least one-third of China's total polysilicon capacity, with a potential fund size of RMB 50-80 billion [2][7] 3. **Funding Structure**: The capital structure for the buyout fund is expected to be 30% from asset management companies and 70% from market leaders through equity and debt [2] 4. **Timeline for Acquisition**: Following the establishment of the buyout fund, the acquisition process is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2026 [3] 5. **Positive Outlook for Polysilicon Producers**: The financial performance of top-tier polysilicon producers like GCL, Daqo, and Xinte is expected to improve due to policy support and better profitability since the third quarter of 2025 [4][7] 6. **Price Control Guidance**: There is limited downside risk for polysilicon prices due to high-level price control guidance, with expectations for a peak season starting in the second quarter of the year [4] Investment Recommendations 1. **Preferred Stocks**: GCL Tech (3800 HK) is favored as a buy due to its competitive advantage in production costs and leadership in profitability [4][7] 2. **Target Prices**: - GCL Tech: Current price HKD 1.32, target price HKD 1.80, implying a 36.4% upside [9] - Daqo New Energy: Current price USD 29.43, target price USD 35.00, implying an 18.9% upside [9] - Xinte Energy: Current price HKD 7.89, target price HKD 11.00, implying a 39.4% upside [9] Risks and Considerations 1. **Market Risks**: Potential risks include a significant drop in polysilicon prices, reduced demand from global buyers due to trade disputes, and rising upstream raw material prices [9] 2. **Quality Concerns**: There are concerns regarding the slower progress in quality upgrades of granular polysilicon, which could affect pricing [9] Additional Important Information - The establishment of the buyout fund is seen as a critical step in addressing the overcapacity issue in the polysilicon market, which has been a concern for investors [1][2] - The report emphasizes the importance of policy support in driving the recovery and consolidation of the solar supply chain in China [4][7]