10 May 2024
The global surge in solar power adoption is significantly increasing the demand for silver, which is essential for making photovoltaic (PV) panels due to its superior electrical conductivity and thermal efficiency. With silver prices reaching their highest in a decade, mining companies are ramping up production to meet this demand. Last year, global investment in solar PV manufacturing skyrocketed to approximately $80 billion, representing 40% of the world’s clean technology manufacturing investments, according to the International Energy Agency. Notably, China has more than doubled its investment in solar PV manufacturing from 2022 to 2023. This investment has contributed to a 50% increase in global renewable capacity last year, with solar PV accounting for three-quarters of this growth, marking the fastest expansion in 30 years.