[SMM PV News] France's 2025 Renewable Curtailment Doubles to 3 TWh

The Iraqi Customs Authority slashed tariffs on solar systems—including PV panels, inverters, cables, and lithium batteries—from 33% to 5%. This move aligns with the Central Bank's recent IQD 6 billion ($4.6 million) loan initiative to boost clean energy uptake. Despite high solar irradiance, Iraq's cumulative capacity was just 42 MW at the end of 2024, a lag officials attribute to 'weak awareness'. However, progress is expected through upcoming utility-scale developments, including the 300 MW Karbala plant and TotalEnergies' planned 1 GW project.

The EU is proposing the 'Industrial Accelerator Act' to counter foreign competition, particularly from China. To access public funds, strategic sectors (green tech, EVs, steel) must meet minimum local content thresholds, such as 70% EU-made components for EVs. Additionally, foreign investments over €100 million in emerging sectors (like batteries) from dominant countries holding over 40% of global capacity will face strict conditions: at least 50% EU staff, maximum 49% ownership, and mandatory tech transfer. France strongly backs the move, while Germany favors a more inclusive 'Made with Europe' approach.

[SMM Silicon-Based PV Morning Meeting Minutes] Silicon metal: Yesterday, SMM oxygen-blown #553 silicon in east China was at 9,000-9,200 yuan/mt, and 441# silicon was at 9,200-9,500 yuan/mt. Yesterday afternoon, silicon metal futures prices fluctuated sharply due to macro disruptions; the most-traded contract fell below 8,200 yuan/mt at its low and closed at 8,205 yuan/mt in late trading. Some silicon enterprises in northern China lowered their quoted prices, but they still did not match the price advantage of spot-futures traders, and downstream users mainly bought the dip. Polysilicon: N-type recharging polysilicon was quoted at 46-53 yuan/kg, the polysilicon price index was 49.17 yuan/kg, and polysilicon prices have declined significantly recently, mainly due to pressure from wafer price cuts and the impact of related meetings. At present, as the wafer segment has yet to stop falling, market sentiment is weak, and there may still be some downside room going forward.