Tier 1 List of Solar Panel Manufacturers – Q2 2025

BloombergNEF (BNEF) has released its quarterly update of solar module manufacturers that meet the requirements to be classified as Tier 1. This list, widely used by installers, developers, and financial institutions, identifies manufacturers with a proven track record in non-recourse financed projects—an essential indicator of bankability and technical reliability.

What does it mean to be a Tier 1 manufacturer?

The BNEF Tier 1 classification is not directly related to product quality, but rather to the bankability of the manufacturer. To earn this distinction, a company must have supplied modules to at least six projects of over 10 MW each, financed by independent commercial banks, within the past 24 months. This ensures that the manufacturer has the financial strength, technical reputation, and stability required to participate in large-scale projects.

Relevant changes in the criteria

In 2025, BloombergNEF has raised the bar for being considered Tier 1. Whereas projects of 5 MW were previously accepted, the new minimum threshold is now 10 MW, increasing the level of demand to be included in the list.

This adjustment reflects the growing professionalization of the sector and the need to guarantee the reliability of manufacturers involved in major bank-financed installations. The resulting list offers a more accurate selection of the most established manufacturers in the global market.

Download TIER 1 List – Q2 2025

For more information about Tier 1 solar panel brands, contact us at: export@vicoexport.com or call us at +34 960 07 44 87.