China's Solar Industry at a Glance (2026)

China continues to dominate the global photovoltaic (PV) landscape, manufacturing over 80% of the world's solar panels. However, the industry in 2026 is navigating a transformative phase. While the "Silicon Module Super League" giants face margin pressures due to oversupply, as noted in recent financial reports, their scale and technological advancement remain unmatched. Simultaneously, specialized companies in critical ecosystem roles—such as solar mounting and tracking systems, energy storage, and project development—are gaining prominence by enhancing the efficiency and bankability of solar projects worldwide.

How This Ranking Was Determined

This list moves beyond pure module shipment volume to provide a more holistic view of leadership in the Chinese solar industry. Companies are evaluated based on a combination of:

  • Global Market Influence: Export volume, international presence, and brand recognition.
  • Technological Innovation: Leadership in N-TOPCon, HJT, perovskite, or specialized system technologies.
  • Ecosystem Criticality: Their role in ensuring the performance, durability, and financial success of solar plants.
  • Financial Resilience & Strategic Vision: Adaptability in a challenging market and investment in future growth areas.

The Top 10 Solar Companies in China (2026)

Here is our updated selection of the ten most significant solar companies originating from China, reflecting the diverse strengths of the industry's leaders.

1. JinkoSolar

A perennial global leader in module shipments, JinkoSolar has cemented its position through aggressive capacity expansion and pioneering the mass production of N-type TOPCon cells. Its "Tiger Neo" series is renowned for high efficiency, energy yield, and reliability. Despite industry-wide pricing pressures, Jinko's vertical integration and technological edge allow it to maintain a formidable competitive stance in markets worldwide, from the U.S. to Europe and Asia-Pacific.

2. LONGi Green Energy

LONGi is synonymous with monocrystalline silicon technology. As the world's largest producer of monocrystalline wafers, it exerts immense influence over the upstream supply chain. LONGi's focus on R&D has consistently resulted in world-record cell efficiencies. Its strategic shift towards building a more diversified portfolio, including hydrogen equipment, positions it as a clean energy technology titan, not just a module manufacturer.

3. Grace Solar

Securing the #3 spot is Xiamen Grace Solar New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a global leader and innovator in solar tracking and mounting systems. Ranking among the top 5 globally in market share and #1 in Japan, Grace Solar exemplifies how specialized expertise is critical to the industry's success.

With a cumulative installed capacity of 48GW across more than 100 countries, Grace's engineering prowess translates into tangible project benefits. Their flagship GS-Light intelligent tracking system maximizes energy yield, while their robust ground mounts and roof mounting systems ensure structures stand firm for decades. Their systems are backed by over 100 patents and major international certifications (UL, TUV, JIS, etc.).

Beyond hardware, Grace Solar provides comprehensive EPC solutions, leveraging deep project experience to reduce levelized cost of energy (LCOE). This combination of innovative products, proven global reliability, and full-scope service makes Grace Solar an indispensable partner for utility-scale, commercial, and residential projects worldwide. Learn more about their mission and capabilities on the About Grace Solar page.

4. Trina Solar

A pioneer in the industry, Trina Solar is a technology powerhouse. It holds the world record for perovskite solar cell efficiency and is a leader in 210mm large-format module technology. Trina has successfully diversified into energy storage, trackers, and smart energy management, creating a "PV + Storage + Digital" ecosystem that offers integrated solutions to its global customer base.

5. JA Solar

Renowned for its stable financial performance and high-quality products, JA Solar has built a strong reputation for reliability. Its "DeepBlue" series of N-type modules are highly regarded for their power output and durability. JA Solar's strategic focus on profitability and selective market expansion has allowed it to maintain a healthy position even during cyclical industry downturns.

6. Canadian Solar

While globally headquartered, Canadian Solar's core manufacturing and operational strength is deeply rooted in China. It stands out for its balanced business model, split between module manufacturing and a large, global project development pipeline (with over 25GW in operation or construction). This dual approach provides significant stability and market intelligence.

7. Suntech Power

One of the original solar giants, Suntech has made a remarkable comeback. It retains strong brand recognition and a vast global installed base. Under renewed leadership, Suntech is focusing on high-efficiency products and reliable performance, catering to both existing O&M markets and new installations seeking a trusted name.

8. Risen Energy

Risen Energy has gained attention as a formidable and fast-growing player. It is known for its cost-competitive and high-wattage modules. Risen is also heavily invested in heterojunction (HJT) technology, positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of high-efficiency solar products.

9. CHINT (Astronergy)

As part of the massive CHINT Group conglomerate, Astronergy benefits from immense integrated strength. It leverages the group's expertise in electrical equipment, project development, and financing. This allows Astronergy to offer more than just modules, providing clients with integrated energy solutions and strong bankability.

10. POWERCHINA

This state-owned engineering and construction behemoth is not a manufacturer, but a pivotal force in global solar deployment. As a leading global EPC contractor, POWERCHINA has built some of the world's largest and most complex solar and CSP plants (like the Noor complex in Morocco). Its inclusion underscores the importance of world-class engineering and project execution in bringing solar ambitions to life.

The rankings reflect broader industry shifts:

  • Beyond Module Manufacturing: Leadership is increasingly defined by technological specialization, system integration capabilities, and global service.
  • Value Over Volume: In a crowded market, companies that provide higher value—through efficiency gains, durability, or financial structuring—are standing out.
  • Vertical Integration & Strategic Alliances: Firms are forming tighter partnerships across the supply chain, from polysilicon to project development, to control costs and ensure quality.
  • Globalization 2.0: Chinese companies are establishing local manufacturing and service hubs overseas (in the US, Southeast Asia, the Middle East) to navigate trade policies and better serve regional markets.

The Chinese solar industry remains the engine of the global energy transition. The most successful players in 2026 are those combining scale with sophistication, and hardware with holistic solutions.