Logistics for the solar power industry

What is solar energy logistics?

Solar energy is a key player in the global shift towards renewable energy sources. Solar energy logistics encompasses the intricate process of managing the supply chain for solar energy projects, including the procurement, transportation, and storage of solar components like photovoltaic panels, inverters, and mounting structures.

How can US solar industry reduce its reliance on foreign supply chains?

Reducing the U.S. solar industry’s reliance on a concentrated foreign supply chain and improving domestic competitiveness would help to manage the risks associated with the current PV module supply chain. Three supply chain scenarios that could achieve these goals include: Majority domestic with mature technologies.

What is the solar supply chain?

The solar supply chain is global and reliant on products from China or companies with close ties to China, a country with documented human rights violations and an unpredictable trade relationship with the United States.

What makes a good solar supply chain?

Majority domestic production across all required supply chain segments for mature solar technologies (crystalline silicon and cadmium telluride). A blend of domestic sourcing with diversified imports of mature technologies, including broader international production and collaboration for key supply segments.

What is a solar supply chain checklist?

It outlines the critical steps and considerations necessary for the smooth execution of solar energy projects. This checklist should be used as a strategic tool to navigate the complexities of the solar supply chain, ensuring that every phase from component manufacturing to final installation is efficiently managed.

Should the US diversify the solar supply chain?

To manage this risk, the United States must quickly diversify solar supply chains and improve our domestic position. To be successful, a domestic sector with a minimum of 30 GWdc annual production for most if not all components of the supply chain is likely needed within 2-3 years, with as much as 100 GWdc needed by 2030.