Forging Ahead : Technology Development&Emerging Economies

Abstract

Against the pressing challenge of climate change, solar photovoltaic technology is widely considered as a clean and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Landscaping the development of solar technology worldwide, the case of China is prominent, as it experienced a successful catching-up and a dramatic growth in production, deployment, and development of solar modules over the past few years. This dissertation takes you on a magic carpet ride through the technological innovation system of photovoltaics in China. Through the pages of this book, you will be introduced to the technical components of the solar technology. You will track the development stages of the innovation system in China, meet the main actors, get to know their capabilities, specialization profiles, and interactions. Additionally, you will see how their knowledge networks evolve over time. The dissertation further tells the story of political economy, solar wars, and the role of governmental policies in shaping the present status of the global system and protecting the environment.