On September 16, 2025, China's National Standard Information Public Service Platform released a notice soliciting public comments on three mandatory national standards, including the Energy Consumption Limits per Unit Product of Polysilicon and Germanium. The draft sets clearer and tighter energy use benchmarks for polysilicon manufacturers, signaling stronger regulatory focus on energy efficiency in the photovoltaic supply chain.
According to the draft, existing polysilicon producers must meet the third-grade energy consumption limit - 6.4 kgce/kg for the trichlorosilane (TCS) method and 5.0 kgce/kg for the silane fluidized bed method. Newly established or expanded projects, however, face stricter second-grade thresholds. That is, 5.5 kgce/kg for TCS-based production and 4.0 kgce/kg for silane-based processes.
These limits are coupled with specific electricity consumption standards, reinforcing the push toward lower-carbon manufacturing.
The draft also highlights current industry challenges. Based on survey data, five enterprises that accounted for 26.4% of China's 2024 polysilicon output (340,000 tonnes) recorded energy consumption exceeding 6.5 kgce/kg. Market analysts note that under current operating rates, few manufacturers meet the first or even second-grade standards, though most satisfy the third-grade limit. At full capacity, leading firms are generally able to align with second-grade requirements.
Compared to earlier versions discussed in industry forums in July and September 2025, the latest proposal is more stringent. It is estimated that about 15.1% of existing capacity or 517,300 tonnes per year could face phase-out or consolidation if the standard is implemented, which are mostly older, energy-intensive facilities.
The standard is currently in the public comment phase, with feedback accepted until November 15, 2025. If adopted, it will take effect 12 months after official publication, likely by the end of 2026. Companies will have this transition period to conduct energy audits and undertake necessary technological upgrades.
This move underscores China's effort to raise the bar for polysilicon production, steering the industry toward higher efficiency and lower emissions amid rapid PV expansion globally
Key Details at a Glance:
- TCS Method (Existing): 3rd grade = 6.4 kgce/kg (52.1 kWh/kg)
- Silane Method (Existing): 3rd grade = 5.0 kgce/kg (40.7 kWh/kg)
- New/Expanded Capacity: Must meet 2nd grade (5.5 kgce/kg for TCS; 4.0 kgce/kg for silane)
- Impact: ~517,300 tpy capacity at risk of exit
- Timeline: Comments until Nov 15, 2025; enforcement expected by end of 2026
