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Solar-Grade Silicon in the Energy Transition: A Strategic Commodity for the Global Photovoltaic Market

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  • César Ramírez-Márquez

    (Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Francisco J. Múgica S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Morelia 58060, Michoacan, Mexico)

Abstract

As global economies accelerate their energy transitions, the photovoltaic sector faces critical challenges linked to material supply, security, and sustainability. Solar-grade silicon, enabling over 90 percent of photovoltaic technologies, has become a strategic commodity underpinning the expansion of renewable energy infrastructures. This short communication examines the evolving role of solar-grade silicon within the global energy transition, moving beyond its traditional classification as a technical material to frame it as a commodity of geopolitical and economic significance. We analyze recent price trends, regional production asymmetries, and trade dependencies, identifying key vulnerabilities in current supply chains. Although alternative photovoltaic materials such as perovskites and organics attract research interest, their commercial immaturity reinforces the centrality of silicon. The novelty of this contribution lies in treating solar-grade silicon through a commodity lens, integrating techno-economic metrics with policy and investment considerations. We highlight opportunities for reinforcing supply resilience through domestic production, circular economy strategies such as silicon recovery and reuse, and diversification of technological pathways. Our findings advocate for the inclusion of solar-grade silicon in strategic resource planning and industrial policy frameworks. Recognizing its unique position at the intersection of energy, technology, and trade is essential to achieving secure, scalable, and sustainable photovoltaic deployment worldwide.

Suggested Citation

  • César Ramírez-Márquez, 2025. "Solar-Grade Silicon in the Energy Transition: A Strategic Commodity for the Global Photovoltaic Market," Commodities, MDPI, vol. 4(3), pages 1-12, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jcommo:v:4:y:2025:i:3:p:18-:d:1736172
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Milousi, Maria & Souliotis, Manolis, 2023. "A circular economy approach to residential solar thermal systems," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 207(C), pages 242-252.
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