How can I adapt to the transformation of the electrical appliances sector?

The electrical appliances sector is changing: what is happening?

The electrical appliances sector is undergoing a period of profound transformation. Factors such as digitalization, industrial automation, and the growing demand for customized products are redefining manufacturing processes.

In addition, the transition towards Smart Infrastructure is driving new requirements in energy efficiency, connectivity, and sustainability.

Standard solutions are no longer enough in the electrical appliances sector

At Mondragon Assembly, we understand technology as a means to support the production process, not the other way around. Our approach is based on in-depth knowledge of the product, the manufacturing process, and the customer’s operational needs, enabling us to develop tailor-made, scalable solutions designed to evolve over time.

• Greater product customization
• Shorter production runs (low runners)
• Frequent model changes
• More demanding technical requirements

This makes traditional solutions less effective. Today, the key lies in implementing flexible, adaptable automation solutions that are ready to evolve alongside the market.

So, what should automation solutions look like in the electrical appliances sector?

• Flexibility to adapt to different product variants
• Scalability to grow with demand
• High throughput, even in customized environments
• Technological integration within a single line
• Ability to evolve without impacting production

At Mondragon Assembly, this approach is based on a deep understanding of the product, the process, and the customer, enabling the development of tailor-made machines for electrical appliances that are ready for the future.

Modularity as a key factor in electrical appliances automation

Modularity is one of the main differentiators of our solutions. From the early stages of each project, we design modular machines that enable future expansions, model changes, or the integration of new stations, reducing the impact on production and protecting the customer’s investment.

Advantages of a modular solution:

• Allows new stations to be added without redesigning the entire line
• Facilitates quick model changes
• Reduces the impact on production
• Protects long-term investment

Modular solutions are designed from the outset to evolve, making them a key element in highly uncertain environments.

How does automation influence operational efficiency (OPEX)?

Customization is not limited to the final product; it also covers key aspects of OPEX, making it possible to optimize:

• Number of operators
• Line energy consumption
• Plant layout
• Ergonomic accessibility for operators
• Changeover times
• Adequate space for maintenance tasks
• Minimization of machine downtime

This approach enables the delivery of machines that are “easy for anyone to operate,” resulting in:

• User-friendly
• Intuitive interfaces (HMI)
• Solutions adapted to real industrial environments

What role does support play in electrical appliances automation?

Our value proposition goes beyond simply supplying machinery. At Mondragon Assembly, we offer comprehensive support throughout the entire lifecycle of the machine: from the conceptual and solution definition phase, through project management and commissioning, to after-sales support.

We have an in-house service team that provides training, spare parts supply, machine modifications and upgrades, as well as continuous technical support. All of this is backed by professional project management, with smooth and transparent communication that minimizes the level of involvement required from the customer.

Sustainability is also part of our value proposition, incorporating energy efficiency criteria, consumption monitoring, and considering the machine’s second life as part of the design.

Real cases: how companies in the sector are adapting

A clear example of our adaptability is our collaboration with leading customers in the electrical appliances sector, where we have developed high-throughput and highly flexible solutions for the assembly of mechanisms and circuit breakers. Thanks to our product know-how, the integration of key technologies, and close project management, we have established ourselves as a trusted technological partner, achieving high levels of customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Conclusion: how to adapt to the future of electrical appliances

The electrical appliances sector is constantly evolving towards increasingly intelligent, efficient, and customized products. This transformation forces manufacturers to rethink their production processes and commit to more flexible and adaptable models.

In this context, investing in automation solutions not only helps address current industry challenges, but also enables companies to anticipate future needs and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Take the next step in automating your production. Contact our team and explore how to optimize your processes in the electrical appliances sector.

Together it’s possible!

How to choose a reliable solar partner: key factors to identify a responsible company in photovoltaic automation

The solar industry is expanding rapidly, and with it, the number of available suppliers. However, not all companies operate under the same standards or share a long-term vision.

Choosing the right reliable solar partner is a decision that will impact your project for years. This article outlines the key criteria to identify a responsible, close, and trustworthy solar company, and what to expect before making a commitment.

Why choosing the right solar supplier is a strategic decision

Selecting a solar supplier goes beyond acquiring technology. It means building a relationship that will likely last for years. That is why factors such as responsibility, proximity, and reliability play a decisive role in the success of any solar project.

A solar partner that understands the energy transition as a process where technology and people evolve together brings real long-term value beyond equipment supply.

What defines a responsible solar company?

Transparency and ethics from the first proposal

Responsibility begins with clear and honest communication. A responsible solar partner provides transparent information from the very first interaction: realistic timelines, clearly defined costs, and technical capabilities aligned with what can truly be delivered.

This also includes strict compliance with European and international standards, as well as full traceability of components and processes. In a complex technological environment, technical honesty (avoiding overpromising) is one of the strongest indicators of a reliable solar provider.

Long-term vision and genuine commitment

Responsibility does not end with delivery. The most reliable solar partners support clients throughout the entire project lifecycle, offering ongoing assistance, upgrades, and solutions over time.

Continuous investment in R&D, anticipating future needs, and maintaining engagement after commissioning are what distinguish a responsible solar company from a simple equipment supplier.

Proximity in industrial solar projects: a key advantage

Local presence with global capabilities

In complex industrial projects, proximity becomes a critical factor. Local teams enable faster response times, better understanding of regulatory environments, and more efficient communication with the client.

Proximity is demonstrated through consistent involvement: from project definition to installation, commissioning, and ongoing operations.

Collaboration, active listening, and tailored solutions

The most effective solutions are rarely standard. Companies that truly prioritize proximity work through collaboration and co-creation, adapting each project to specific needs and validating every stage together.

Listening, adapting, and designing customized solutions are essential elements of a trust-based relationship. A close partner focuses on people and long-term collaboration, not just transactions.

Reliability in solar automation: the foundation of project success

Proven experience in real solar projects

Reliability is demonstrated through results. A strong track record in solar automation projects, across technologies and markets, is one of the clearest indicators of a solid reliable solar partner. Long-term client relationships further reinforce this credibility.

European quality standards

Operating under European quality standards, with consistent processes across all locations, ensures reliability and operational stability. Quality is not optional—it is essential for ensuring long-term performance.

Strong after-sales service: commitment beyond installation

A solar project does not end at commissioning. Maintenance plans, continuous support, training, and technical documentation are key components of a dependable solar after-sales service.

A reliable solar partner not only reacts to issues but works proactively to prevent them. Attention to detail after project delivery reflects true commitment.

Checklist: how to identify a reliable solar partner before deciding

Before selecting your solar automation partner, evaluate these key indicators: 

• Full transparency throughout the sales and installation process 

• Open and direct communication with technical teams 

• Local teams with global support capabilities 

• Certified and auditable European quality standards 

• Proven experience in complex photovoltaic automation projects 

• Stable, long-term after-sales service 

• People-centered organizational culture 

• Strong adaptability and active listening to specific needs 

Why Mondragon Assembly is a reliable solar partner

At Mondragon Assembly, this approach is embedded in our European DNA with a global presence, extensive experience in solar automation, and a cooperative culture built on collaboration.

Our WE CARE approach defines how we engage with clients, suppliers, and teams, combining advanced technology, continuous support, and a strong human commitment. Because the most successful projects are built on trust and long-term partnership.

Conclusion: choosing the right solar partner makes the difference

Beyond technology, the success of a solar project depends on the strength of the relationship built over time. Working with a reliable solar partner ensures stability, ongoing support, and operational peace of mind.

In a rapidly evolving energy landscape, choosing the right partners is a strategic decision, one increasingly driven by values as much as by technology.

How to evaluate whether a solar partner has the right network for international projects

In a photovoltaic industry that increasingly operates on a global scale, choosing the right international solar partner is no longer a competitive advantage—it is a strategic requirement.

Understanding what truly defines a strong international network allows companies to make more informed decisions and select an international solar partner aligned with their long-term growth objectives.

Why an international network is critical in solar projects

The solar industry operates in a highly competitive and globalized environment, where projects are no longer confined to a single country or operational framework. Companies must navigate diverse regulatory systems, supplier ecosystems, and logistical conditions.

In this context, working with a solar partner capable of providing international support is no longer optional, it is essential. The challenge goes beyond installing a production line; it is about ensuring operational continuity wherever that line is deployed.

Today, advanced technology alone is not enough. The real differentiator lies in the ability to be present, respond quickly, and support the client at every stage of the project, regardless of location.

What defines a strong international solar network

Having an international network is not simply about having offices in multiple countries. The real value lies in an active operational structure capable of delivering effective on-site support.

A robust network includes local technical teams trained to install, maintain, and optimize production lines with the same standards applied in the country of origin. This ensures consistent and reliable service across all locations.

It also reduces dependence on remote support or long-distance travel, enabling faster response times when issues arise. In practice, this means providing clients with technical proximity and immediate reaction capability, two critical factors in demanding industrial environments.

How to evaluate an international solar partner

Choosing the right partner for a global solar project requires assessing their real operational capabilities across different markets.

Beyond marketing claims, there are clear indicators that reveal whether a partner’s international network is truly effective:

• Real local presence, with in-house technical teams capable of rapid on-site intervention
• Strong logistics and resource availability, ensuring operational continuity
• Structured after-sales service, focused on long-term performance optimization
• Proven experience in international projects, particularly in complex environments

A partner that meets these criteria does more than execute projects, it ensures stability, adaptability, and efficiency in any geographical context.

Experience plays a key role here. Managing installations across multiple countries requires the ability to adapt technology, integrate with local suppliers, and comply with diverse regulatory frameworks.

At Mondragon Assembly, over 20 years of international experience have enabled the development of a strong network of strategic partners in areas such as financing, R&D, and supply chain, facilitating the full development of solar projects worldwide.

The value of a “Close to You” partner in the solar industry

In industrial solar projects, proximity goes beyond physical location. A global partner must offer operational, technical, and human closeness, elements that directly impact project outcomes.

This proximity reduces response times, prevents deviations, and minimizes both technical and financial risks. For clients, it means working with a partner that provides continuous support, from initial design to daily operations.

The “Close to you” philosophy directly addresses this need: being present at every stage of the project, delivering expertise and consistent support.

How Mondragon Assembly ensures global support

Mondragon Assembly has developed an international network specifically designed for the solar sector, with a presence in strategic locations and highly qualified local technical teams.

This structure enables fast intervention and efficient performance in multicultural and multidisciplinary environments, adapting to the specific requirements of each market.

Our approach combines global capabilities with close collaboration, always focused on client success and the continuous optimization of production line performance.

Case Study: International project with local support

A representative example involves a client expanding production capacity with a new manufacturing line outside Europe. The challenge was to maintain the quality standards of the original plant while adapting to a new operational environment.

The project required:

• Integration with local suppliers
• Regulatory adaptation
• Continuous technical support

This made on-site presence essential.

Mondragon Assembly deployed its own technical team, trained local operators, and provided full support during the commissioning phase. After implementation, an active after-sales service ensured long-term operational stability.

Thanks to this combination of international expertise and local proximity, the project was executed reliably and achieved expected performance levels from the outset.

Conclusion: Why an international network is a key factor in solar project success

In an increasingly global photovoltaic market, selecting a solar partner with a strong international network is a decision that directly impacts project success.

The ability to provide local support, adapt to different markets, and ensure continuous assistance helps reduce risks, optimize timelines, and maintain operational efficiency.

At Mondragon Assembly, we work under this model, combining a “Close to you” approach with a global network designed to support our clients anywhere in the world.

What are the advantages of modular and scalable battery assembly lines?

The electrification of transportation, the rise of energy storage, and the growth of new electronic applications are generating an unprecedented demand for batteries. In this context, modular and scalable battery assembly lines have become one of the most effective strategies for rapidly scaling production while maintaining quality, efficiency, and reliability.

What does it mean for a line to be modular and scalable?

Modular line

A modular line is organized into independent stations or modules, each responsible for a specific phase of the process. In the context of modular and scalable battery assembly lines, these modules may include:

A scalable line allows production capacity to be increased without redesigning the entire plant. In modular and scalable battery assembly lines, this means a manufacturer can:

Main advantages of modular and scalable battery assembly lines

1. Reduced risk in battery projects

The development of new battery architectures often involves frequent changes. Modular and scalable battery assembly lines make it possible to:

2. Faster time-to-market

In a highly competitive sector, getting to market first is key. Modularity and scalability enable:

3. Flexibility to adapt to battery design changes

With cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch formats coexisting in the industry, flexibility is essential. Modular and scalable battery assembly lines allow specific modules to be replaced or adapted without redesigning the entire line, enabling a smooth transition to new battery generations.

4. Optimized CAPEX and OPEX

Modularity offers both economic and operational advantages:

Many manufacturers aim to replicate production in different regions. With modular and scalable battery assembly lines, it is possible to deploy the same capabilities across multiple locations while maintaining:

How Mondragon Assembly designs modular and scalable battery assembly lines

Designing a battery assembly line requires expertise in product engineering, automation, and flexible architectures. Among the modules we integrate, the most notable include:

Case study

A European manufacturer needed to launch a new battery architecture for electric mobility. The pack design was still evolving, which made it risky to invest in a large‑scale line.

Conclusion: a strategic necessity

Modular and scalable battery assembly lines are no longer just a competitive advantage: they are a necessity for manufacturers seeking to minimize risk, accelerate their time‑to‑market, and adapt to a constantly changing industry.

Discover how we can boost your production line.

How to measure photovoltaic production line performance: OEE as a key indicator for efficient profitable manufacturing

The solar industry is growing at an unprecedented pace. New technologies such as TOPCon, HJT and Back Contact, increasing cost pressure and increasingly demanding quality standards are forcing manufacturers to optimize every detail of their production processes. In this context, many manufacturers ask the same question: Is my photovoltaic production line really performing as it should?

The answer cannot be found in a single metric, but in a set of key performance indicators (KPIs) that allow manufacturers to objectively evaluate whether a solar module manufacturing line is efficient, stable and profitable. Whether you are new to solar manufacturing or already operating a production plant, measuring these KPIs will help you make better decisions and avoid hidden losses that can significantly impact your cost per watt peak (€/Wp).

This analysis is especially important in the design and operation of photovoltaic module manufacturing lines, where each KPI directly affects overall production efficiency.

What does photovoltaic production line performance really mean?

A solar production line is not competitive because of its nominal capacity, but because of its real daily performance.

The performance of a photovoltaic production line depends on its ability to:

• Identify which indicators truly influence performance
• Monitor those parameters continuously and reliably
• Optimize each of them to avoid invisible but costly losses

When a plant understands what should be measured and measures it correctly, it can identify issues that are not visible at first glance: Bottlenecks, microstoppages, quality deviations, inefficiencies that increase the cost per Wp.

Even when production appears stable, these hidden losses can significantly affect overall efficiency.

In this article we explain the KPIs that truly matter when measuring photovoltaic production line performance.

The key KPI for measuring real photovoltaic production line performance: real throughput vs. theoretical throughput

To determine whether a photovoltaic production line is performing as expected, it is not enough to look at nominal capacity or daily production. The real competitiveness of a production line is determined by the difference between what the line could theoretically produce and what it actually produces during daily operation.

This analysis is performed using a single key indicator: OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), which provides the most comprehensive view of the daily performance of a solar module manufacturing plant.

The three factors that determine OEE

OEE is composed of Availability, Performance and Quality, and it allows manufacturers to understand whether a production line is operating as its nominal capacity promises or if hidden losses exist. These losses may include: downtime, microstoppages, reduced speed, and scrap.

All of these directly increase the cost per Wp.

These three factors are typically measured at the individual machine level, rather than only at the complete production line level, because this is the most effective way to detect:

• Bottlenecks
• Invisible microstoppages
• Speed losses
• Logistics or production flow impacts
• Design or flow balance misalignments

Additionally, a well-balanced production line design, with buffers at critical points and stable automation, ensures that small OEE drops in individual machines do not affect the overall line performance.

Why measure OEE per individual machine?

Although calculating a global line OEE is common practice, measuring it machine by machine provides key advantages:

• It identifies where real losses occur
• It helps anticipate bottlenecks before they affect the entire line
• It facilitates production flow balancing and buffer sizing
• It optimizes maintenance planning and scheduled stops
• It provides a reliable picture of the real production behavior

For this reason, real-time machine monitoring systems are essential. These automated systems make it possible to evaluate the behavior of each machine in real time and take the necessary actions to optimize the actual throughput of the production line.

1. Availability: ensuring machines do not stop

Availability measures the actual operating time of each machine compared to planned production time. To maintain high availability, it is essential to control:

• Preventive maintenance: Prevents unexpected failures and reduces microstoppages
• Proper production planning: Poor planning generates waiting times, blockages and imbalances between stations.
• Efficient logistics organization: If materials are missing, the line stops. If materials accumulate excessively, blockages may occur.
• Correct line design and strategic buffers: A well-designed line absorbs temporary interruptions without affecting the rest of the production process.

2. Performance: ensuring machines run in the correct speed 

Performance compares the actual machine speed with its theoretical cycle time. To maximize performance, manufacturers must ensure:

• Preventive maintenance: Machines that are not in optimal condition gradually lose speed.
• Properly configured process recipes: Correct parameter configuration for laminators, soldering machines, pick & place systems or lay-up stations prevents rhythm mismatches.
• Continuous flow between stations: Reducing idle time and synchronizing stations prevents rhythm losses that directly affect throughput.

3. Quality: Target 0 scrap

Every defective product has a direct impact on manufacturing profitability. For this reason, quality controls should be implemented after key processes in the production line to identify defects as early as possible.

Early detection allows the module to be recovered and minimizes economic impact. Late detection usually means the entire module must be discarded.

In photovoltaic module manufacturing lines, yield is typically measured at two different stages:

• Yield before Lamination

This parameter detects how many cells are discarded during production due to possible defects such as broken cells, poor soldering, incorrect placement

Vision inspection and EL systems help identify these defects.

• Yield after lamination

This parameter measures the percentage of good modules compared to the total modules produced. At this stage, any defect that prevents module sale, even a small defect in a single cell, usually results in scrapping the entire module, since repairing it is not economically viable.

Inspection systems at this stage typically include EL, Hi-pot, IV testing and vision systems to detect failures as early as possible.

When these three dimensions are managed correctly, OPEX remains under control

What is OPEX in a photovoltaic production line?

OPEX (Operational Expenditure) includes all costs associated with the daily operation of the production line:

• Energy consumption
• Maintenance
• Scrap
• Spare parts
• Non-productive time
• Personnel

It is a critical indicator because it directly affects cost per Wp and operational margins.

Why is OPEX critical in solar manufacturing?

The photovoltaic industry operates with tight margins and strong competitive pressure.

OPEX directly influences the final module cost and margin per Wp. When OPEX increases, it reduces the company’s ability to absorb market fluctuations and limits annual profitability.

High OPEX caused by energy consumption, reactive maintenance, incidents or low availability results in:

• Higher cost per unit produced
• Reduced competitiveness
• Lower capacity to absorb market changes
• Direct impact on annual profitability

Every stop, microstop or speed reduction creates cumulative losses over the production year, making OPEX optimization even more critical than the initial capital investment.

How to reduce OPEX in a photovoltaic manufacturing line

The reduction of OPEX does not depend on a single action, but on a comprehensive strategy based on efficiency and prevention.

In fact, optimizing OPEX in photovoltaic manufacturing requires a detailed analysis of energy consumption, maintenance and operational losses, as we explain in depth in our article on reducing OPEX in photovoltaic module manufacturing.

• Integrating energy-efficient equipment
• Designing robust production lines that minimize failures
• Facilitating access to critical components for faster maintenance
• Implementing real-time monitoring systems
• Ensuring fast global spare parts support

Conclusion: Photovoltaic production line performance is measured every day 

Accurately measuring photovoltaic production line performance means going beyond nominal production data and analyzing real operational behavior. OEE, and its three components: availability, performance and quality, allows manufacturers to understand where losses occur and how they affect throughput, cost per Wp and overall plant profitability.

When these factors are managed together and supported by balanced line design, strong preventive maintenance and reliable machine-level monitoring, the result is clear: a more stable operation, controlled OPEX, and a truly comprehensive production line.

Ultimately, optimizing a photovoltaic production line is not just a technical matter, it is a strategic approach to ensure long-term productivity, quality and profitability.

If you want to analyze the real performance of your photovoltaic production line and identify improvement opportunities, contact Mondragon Assembly to evaluate these KPIs with a comprehensive approach.

Photovoltaic Trends 2026: Innovation, New Niches and a Transforming Market

The photovoltaic sector is facing 2026 as a key year of transition and technological consolidation. After a decade of accelerated growth, the solar industry is entering a new phase shaped by cost optimisation, application specialisation, and innovation in materials and manufacturing processes.

Technologies such as floating photovoltaics, agrivoltaics, solar mobility, space-based solar energy, and advanced PV system integration are opening up new market niches. At the same time, advances such as perovskite solar cells—a material that is revolutionising the sector due to its high efficiency and lower production costs—are emerging as one of the main efficiency drivers for the next decade.

In this context, understanding the photovoltaic trends for 2026 is essential to anticipate the evolution of the global solar energy market.

Overview of the photovoltaic sector in 2026

Solar market in China: a year of transition

In 2026, China will remain the main player in the photovoltaic market, although growth is expected to be more moderate following the significant production slowdown experienced in 2025. This transition period may be accompanied by:

• Increases in solar module prices
• Pressure on raw material costs
• Fiscal changes, such as the removal of export VAT rebates

These factors are reducing part of the country’s competitive advantage and accelerating the reconfiguration of the global solar supply chain.

Solar market in Europe: first contraction after a decade

In 2025, the European solar market experienced its first contraction in almost ten years, following a period of rapid expansion. This adjustment marks the end of an exceptional growth cycle and the beginning of a more selective phase, where quality, productivity, and efficiency of European solar assembly lines will be more critical than ever.

Solar market in the United States: impact of government changes

In the United States, changes in government in 2025 led to a reconfiguration of the energy framework, affecting the pace of investment in renewables. Looking ahead to 2026, the US solar market faces a scenario of regulatory uncertainty that will influence industrial and strategic decision-making.

How will costs evolve in the photovoltaic sector?

The most relevant factor for 2026 may be a moderate increase in costs after several years of decline. Forecasts point to increases driven by higher raw material prices and fiscal measures in China, such as the removal of export VAT rebates—a change that directly impacts the global photovoltaic supply chain and the competitiveness of Asian manufacturers.

Despite this context, technological innovation in the solar industry will remain a key driver. The efficiency of photovoltaic cells will continue to improve, particularly through the combination of silicon and perovskite-based technologies, which are beginning to consolidate as one of the most relevant technological advances shaping the future of solar energy over the next decade.

Key Photovoltaic Trends in 2026

Material changes in photovoltaics: efficiency, cost and sustainability

Perovskite and tandem cells: the major leap in efficiency

In 2026, innovation in materials and manufacturing processes will continue to shape the evolution of the photovoltaic sector. In terms of materials, the momentum behind perovskite-based cells will continue, including perovskite–silicon tandem architectures, which are moving towards greater industrial maturity.

Their appeal lies in their ability to make better use of the solar spectrum, overcoming some of the physical limitations of conventional silicon. As a result, these architectures offer:

• Significant efficiency gains, with the potential to surpass current silicon limits
• Lower cost per watt, by generating more energy from the same surface area
• New module design possibilities, both for conventional applications and advanced integration

Reducing the use of silver and alternative materials in solar manufacturing

In parallel, the photovoltaic industry is actively working to reduce the use of critical materials, particularly silver, one of the components with the greatest impact on both cost and environmental footprint in solar cells.

This reduction will be achieved through new metallization pastes, alternative material formulations and more efficient deposition techniques. The goal is to lower costs and improve scalability in photovoltaic manufacturing.

Advanced automation and new photovoltaic cell architectures

The technological evolution of the photovoltaic sector in 2026 does not depend solely on new materials, but also on the ability of production lines to adapt to increasingly complex cell architectures. Within this trend, two key challenges stand out:

• Deposition of active layers for perovskite-based technologies:
  The industrialisation of perovskite cells requires more stable, uniform and scalable deposition processes suitable for mass production.
• Evolution of back contact cells and adaptation of assembly processes:
  The gradual adoption of back contact cells will require new interconnection solutions, greater precision in cell handling, and adjustments to stringing and lay-up processes.

Together, these technologies have the potential to increase module efficiency and redefine the design of future solar manufacturing lines.

Experience and know-how: a key competitive advantage

In a highly demanding sector such as photovoltaics, industrial experience and accumulated technical knowledge provide a real competitive advantage. Companies with a strong background in solar panel manufacturing benefit from three key strengths.

Technical expertise and quality control

Years of research, line implementation and process optimisation enable more efficient, stable and competitive production. This combination of expertise and continuous improvement translates into higher module performance, durability and reliability.

Continuous innovation and investment in R&D

Companies with a strategic vision maintain a constant commitment to innovation, integrating advanced technologies such as back contact cells, high-efficiency PV solutions, and emerging materials. This effort accelerates the adoption of solutions that will define the next decade.

Ability to deliver complex projects

Mondragon Assembly is a clear example of how industrial experience and technical know-how become a true competitive advantage. With more than 25 years of experience in high value-added applications for the photovoltaic sector, the company has established itself as a European reference in PV engineering and automation, capable of translating innovation into real industrial environments.

Recent contributions include the development of production lines for agrivoltaic panels, such as the first photovoltaic manufacturing line for agrivoltaic applications developed in Greece for Brite Solar, as well as solutions for lightweight structural panels aimed at architectural integration and mobility.

Challenges and opportunities for the future of the photovoltaic sector

The photovoltaic sector operates in a complex global environment, where technological, regulatory and geopolitical challenges coexist with new growth opportunities.

Geopolitics and international regulation

Regulatory variability between regions and trade policies influence global competitiveness. Import restrictions, local content incentives and market tensions can reshape supply chains and accelerate industrial relocation.

Sustainability and the manufacturing process

Although solar energy is one of the cleanest technologies within the energy mix, photovoltaic module manufacturing still involves high energy consumption and waste generation—particularly in stages such as silicon purification, a process required to obtain high-purity silicon for solar cells and one that demands high temperatures and intensive energy use.

The industry is working to reduce this impact through more efficient processes and materials with a lower environmental footprint.

Limitations of critical materials

Global scalability is closely linked to the availability of materials such as silicon, silver and other critical metals. The search for alternatives, consumption optimisation and the development of technologies with lower material dependency will be essential for sustained growth.

New market niches

Innovation not only improves solar panel efficiency and competitiveness—it also opens the door to new emerging niches, including:

• Agrivoltaics
• Integrated electric and solar mobility
• Space-based solar energy
• Advanced PV integration in construction and industry

Collaboration and strategic partnerships

In a context of geopolitical uncertainty, collaboration between companies, technology centres and governments will be essential. The trend towards regional production and compliance with local content policies can create opportunities for both manufacturers and technology providers.

What will the future of solar energy look like in 2026?

En un mercado global en constante cambio, las empresas que combinan innovación tecnológica, In a constantly changing global market, companies that combine technological innovation, industrial experience, and adaptability will be the ones leading the photovoltaic industry in 2026 and beyond.

Experience provides the confidence needed to comply with regulations across different regions and manage diversified supply chains; innovation sets the pace for leading the energy transition with more efficient, sustainable and future-ready solutions.

Despite global challenges, solar energy remains one of the greatest opportunities to move towards a cleaner and more secure energy model. Every global challenge is also an invitation to collaborate, grow and lead the photovoltaic industry of tomorrow.

Discover how we develop advanced solutions for solar panel manufacturing.
Mondragon Assembly – Your European Partner for Efficient Solar Manufacturing