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13.11.2024

WG1: Expert Workshop on Reliable Supply Chains for PV and Future of PV Technologies

On 13-14 November, 2024, the Japanese-German Energy Partnership hosted a virtual event on "Reliable Supply Chains for PV And Future of PV Technologies." This two-day conference brought together experts from Germany and Japan to discuss crucial aspects of supply chain risks in the solar energy sector.

Key highlights included:

  1. In-depth exploration of Germany's and Japan's perspectives on PV technology supply chains
  2. A thought-provoking panel discussion on challenges and solutions for sustainable and reliable solar energy supply chains
  3. Insights into the future of PV technologies, including perovskite and organic solar cells, vertical PV, and floating PV


We were honored to have esteemed speakers sharing their perspectives in panel discussions and presentations from Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Climate Neutrality Foundation, The University of Tokyo, BSW – Bundesverband Solarwirtschaft e.V., JPEA - Japan Photovoltaic Energy Association, Toshiba, Heliatek, Suichoku Solar Co. Ltd., and Kyocera.

Main takeaways focused on:

  • While supply chain dependencies pose a threat to energy security, solutions are within reach, but require a holistic approach, starting from the necessary machinery to resources and components, for a supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link.
  • High costs make it challenging for companies to enter or sustain manufacturing operations in the PV market. Addressing financial challenges and market imbalances is crucial to keep progress on track, such as the development of new technologies, and prevent delays that could further reduce competition in the market.
  • Collaborative opportunities for Germany, Japan and likeminded countries exist in: new technologies such as perovskite solar cells; circular economy approaches for PV technologies; to develop political partnerships towards actual investment support in line with political priorities to strengthen supply chains.


Organized in the framework of working group 1 of the Japanese-German Energy Partnership between METI and the BMWK, by adelphi, the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (AHK Japan), in cooperation with the Japan Photovoltaic Energy Association (JPEA).