Chinese Solar Giants Expand Into Space Power Using Cheaper PV Tech

Leading companies in China’s solar energy sector are venturing into space-based power, forming strategic partnerships and investing in perovskite solar technology that could significantly cut costs and support the development of scalable orbital energy systems—potentially revolutionizing both the space and energy industries.

Major Chinese photovoltaic firms, including Trina Solar and Golden Concord Holdings, also known as GCL Group, recently established the Space Energy Development Alliance alongside aerospace organizations and research institutions. This alliance aims to push innovation in next-generation solar applications. The initiative aligns with China’s long-term goal of harnessing space-based solar power and was announced at this year’s International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Expo & Conference.

Kunshan GCL Optoelectronic Material—pioneering in perovskite solar cell technology—and software developer Ziwei Network Technology revealed at the Shanghai trade show that they plan to launch a self-developed “computing satellite” before the end of the year.

This satellite will feature GCL’s perovskite solar panels, a state-of-the-art solid-state energy storage system, and domestically produced graphics processing units. It aims to operate in Earth’s orbit for one year to demonstrate a fully integrated power generation, storage, and consumption system.

Space-based solar power involves generating electricity through solar panels placed on satellites, space stations, and future off-world power stations. These systems could supply energy to spacecraft and potentially transmit power back to Earth. Compared to ground-based solar power, space-based systems benefit from unbroken sunlight exposure and higher energy density.

Perovskite solar cells, composed of synthetic crystal structures, are lighter, more efficient, and less expensive than traditional crystalline silicon PV cells. They are increasingly viewed as a crucial technology for space energy generation.

Experts estimate that space-based solar power could produce eight to fifteen times the energy of terrestrial systems. Market projections suggest the global market for space solar power might reach CNY 56.9 billion (about USD 8.3 billion) this year. With the expansion of low-Earth orbit satellite networks, the industry could grow nearly twentyfold over the next decade, reaching approximately CNY 1.1 trillion (roughly USD 162.3 billion) by 2035.

The aerospace industry largely depends on gallium arsenide (GaAs) III-V solar cells, known for high efficiency and durability under harsh space conditions. These cells are the primary choice for satellite power systems. However, as commercial space activities increase, their high costs are becoming a significant obstacle.

Tian Qingyong, general manager of GCL Optoelectronics, noted at the expo that a basic gallium arsenide space battery costs about CNY 300 (USD 44) per watt, while a complete solar array system exceeds CNY 500 (USD 74) per watt—around CNY 100,000 (USD 14,750) per square meter.

Perovskite cells offer several advantages, including cost reduction to roughly one-tenth of traditional technologies, halving of weight, and flexible designs suitable for next-generation uses, according to Huajin Securities. For terrestrial applications, perovskite cells cost about CNY 0.50 (7 US cents) per watt to produce. The main expense in space-grade perovskite cells stems from radiation-resistant encapsulation glass, with further cost savings possible if the materials’ inherent radiation tolerance can be improved.

Industry advancements in perovskite technology are progressing rapidly. On June 3, GCL announced that its 2,042-square-centimeter perovskite-silicon tandem module achieved a record conversion efficiency of 30.2 percent, surpassing the 30 percent mark for the first time. Earlier in January, SolaEon Technology’s single-junction perovskite solar cell set a new global record with a 27.8 percent efficiency.