EPJ Photovoltaics 15, 40 (2024)
https://doi.org/10.1051/epjpv/2024036

Original Article

Analysis of transport costs structures of solar modules: international versus domestic scenarios

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, 79110 Freiburg, Germany

^* e-mail: max.mittag@ise.fraunhofer.de

Received: 1 July 2024
Accepted: 21 October 2024
Published online: 28 November 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the cost structure associated with transporting photovoltaic (PV) modules, comparing scenarios of international transport from China to Germany, a European manufacturing, and domestic transport within Germany. Utilizing a geometric model to calculate container utilization and transport logistics, we analyze the impact of module design, efficiency, and transportation routes on overall costs. The transport cost model considers module dimensions, container specifications, loading limits, transport modes, costs, packaging materials, and pallet prices. We apply this model to various module types, including M10, G12, and M10R wafer-based cells. Transport costs from China to Germany make up a significant part of the total PV module cost (14.7%–15.8%). In contrast, for German module manufacturing, the transport cost share is well below 2% and European manufacturing adds less than 3%. Transport costs have shown high volatility in the recent decade, and container prices are currently higher than prior to the Corona crisis. Disruptions in global logistics chains − such as shipping route blockages or spikes in container prices − can significantly impact cost structures. Transport costs for PV modules have quadrupled during Corona. We estimate that a transport cost share of ∼10% will remain relevant for the future. Higher module efficiencies lower specific transport costs (€/Wp). An increase of 1%_abs leads to a transport cost reduction of 4.2%_rel. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate that transport costs can account for up to 43% of the final module price in scenarios of low factory-gate module price and high shipping container costs. This study highlights the need to include transport logistics in PV module design and sourcing decisions. We recommend future LCOE assessments for solar projects include detailed transport cost evaluations for decision-making.