On September 11, 2025, Beijing reported
In July 2025, the European Union officially implemented the "Carbon Footprint Traceability" regulation, requiring imported photovoltaic modules to have a full lifecycle carbon emissions of less than 450kgCO ₂/kW. This policy directly impacts Chinese photovoltaic adhesive companies and forces the industry to accelerate its green transformation.
Carbon tariff impact: Single watt cost increases by 0.08 yuan
According to calculations, the carbon emissions per watt of photovoltaic modules produced from traditional petroleum based silicone rubber are 520kgCO ₂, exceeding the EU standard by 15.6%. If calculated at a 20% tariff rate, the cost per watt will increase by 0.08 yuan, causing Chinese photovoltaic modules to lose their price advantage in the EU market.
In response to challenges, domestic enterprises have been deploying biobased technologies one after another. For example, a certain enterprise reduced the carbon emissions from photovoltaic adhesive production to 380kgCO ₂/kW by using the rice husk to produce silane process, which is 27% lower than the traditional route. At present, its bio based products have obtained EU certification, and the order volume has increased by 300% year-on-year.
Green certification: seizing the opportunity in the international market
In addition to technological upgrades, enterprises also need to open up the EU market through international authoritative certification. In 2025, a domestic institution's "Carbon Footprint Label" certification system will be recognized by the European Union, covering the entire process of silicone rubber production, transportation, and use. At present, 12 enterprises have obtained certification, and the export value of products has increased by 45% year-on-year.
In addition, the circular economy model has also become a key factor in reducing carbon emissions. A certain enterprise recycles silicone material from photovoltaic modules and converts it into low viscosity encapsulation adhesive, reducing carbon emissions by 60% compared to raw materials. At present, its recycled products have been supplied to the European market, processing 1 million pieces of waste components annually.
