Philippines Becomes China's Second-Largest Solar Panel Market
PH now China’s No. 2 market for solar panels
Image: Inquirer
The Philippines has risen to become China's second-largest market for solar panels, driven by increasing investments in solar technology amid rising electricity costs. A report from Ember highlights a surge in imports, with rooftop solar capacity growing significantly, reflecting a strong local demand for renewable energy solutions.
- 01In the first four months of 2026, China exported enough solar panels to the Philippines to generate 3,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
- 02Rooftop solar capacity in the Philippines increased from 721 MW to approximately 1,300 MW in just one year.
- 03The payback period for residential rooftop solar has decreased to 3.1 years, making it more attractive to consumers.
- 04Electricity rates from Manila Electric Co. rose by 14% to 17% in May 2026, prompting increased interest in solar solutions.
- 05The Philippines is now the second-largest solar panel market after the Netherlands, with a growing consumer interest in renewable energy.
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The Philippines has become China's second-largest export market for solar panels, as more Filipinos and businesses turn to solar energy to combat rising electricity costs and potential outages, particularly in the Visayas region. A report from Ember indicates a significant increase in solar panel imports, with enough panels imported in March and April 2026 to generate 3,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which is more than half of the previous year's total of 5,068 MW. The country's rooftop solar capacity has surged to around 1,300 MW from 721 MW a year earlier. The payback period for residential solar installations has also improved, dropping to 3.1 years. This trend is supported by rising electricity rates from Manila Electric Co., which increased by 14% to 17% in May 2026. Analysts suggest that the government should enhance support for solar rooftop deployment to further transition away from fossil fuels.
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The rise in solar panel imports and installations is likely to alleviate some pressure from rising electricity costs for consumers.
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