The solar supply chain can basically be broken down into the general categories of manufacturers, installers, and project developers. Within the manufacturing arena itself, the raw material, polysilicon, is produced into ingots, wafers, cells and then modules. These modules are then installed with balance of system components to create a PV system. As the solar industry matured, project developers began to evolve that now handle all the project management aspects of purchasing the modules, design, installation, maintenance, warranty, and in some cases, the financing as well.

During the last few years, the industry has become especially competitive which has motivated many manufacturers to move further and further downstream into a complete, vertical integration model. Vertical integration not only reduces manufacturing cost but also allows for greater control over quality and reduces production lead time. Therefore, many of today’s project developers are also manufacturing their own products.

Many industry experts are predicting an eventual consolidation of the market which means some of the smaller solar players will eventually fold, something that has to be taken into account when choosing your project provider. At Greentech, we position ourselves between the project developers and the consumer acting as a consultant to protect your long term investment by assuring you are partnered with the right supplier.