The global solar supply chain is preparing for a major policy shift that will impact equipment pricing from April 2026 — particularly for solar PV modules and battery storage systems imported into the UK.
China has confirmed that from 1 April 2026, it will reduce or remove VAT export rebates on several solar-related products. These rebates currently make exports more competitive by lowering the price at source. Once removed, pricing is expected to rise and supply could tighten across Europe.
What Does This Mean for UK Projects?
From our discussions with distributors, manufacturers and industry bodies, we expect the following impacts:
✔ Higher pricing on panels and batteries
✔ Reduced product choice due to constrained allocations
✔ Longer lead times for deliveries
✔ Potential project redesigns if equipment is no longer competitively available
Commercial installers in the UK are already being advised to secure equipment early if they wish to avoid re-quotations or specification changes.
How Genfit Is Managing This for Our Customers
We are putting forward four procurement options to protect ongoing and upcoming projects:
Option 1: Early Equipment Delivery (Recommended)
Secure equipment at current pricing
Delivery before April 2026
Installation can take place later if needed
On-site storage provided
Payment on delivery
This option removes cost risk and prevents future re-quotes.
Option 2: Early PO with Agreed Delivery Window
Equipment is allocated now
Delivery window confirmed later
Deposit required
This keeps projects on track while offering scheduling flexibility.
Option 3: Design Flexibility
Use alternative Tier 1 modules/batteries
No quality reduction
Maintains competitive pricing where needed
This is beneficial for tendered projects or fixed-cost agreements.
Option 4: Post-April Delivery
Standard procurement
Re-quote required
Pricing not guaranteed due to market adjustments
Who Is Affected?
These changes are relevant to:
✔ Commercial businesses
✔ Local authorities & public sector
✔ Education estates
✔ Community energy groups
✔ Domestic homeowners planning PV + battery installations
Our Recommendation
For any project in planning, survey, design or feasibility phase, we strongly advise securing equipment allocation before Q2 2026.
This ensures:
✓ Cost certainty
✓ Technology availability
✓ No redesign work
✓ No delays to commissioning or payback periods
Next Steps
If you have an active project with Genfit — or you’re exploring solar for 2025/26 — speak with your Genfit representative to discuss the most suitable procurement pathway.
📩 Contact Genfit: sales@genfit.co.uk
📞 0344 567 9032