PDF Cover

Flexible Solar Panels Market

The market for Flexible Solar Panels was estimated at $973 million in 2025; it is anticipated to increase to $1.67 billion by 2030, with projections indicating growth to around $2.86 billion by 2035.

Report ID:DS2406005
Author:Chandra Mohan - Sr. Industry Consultant
Published Date:
Datatree
Energy & Power
Renewable Energy
Flexible Solar Panels
Share
Report Summary
Market Data
Methodology
Table of Contents

Global Flexible Solar Panels Market Outlook

Revenue, 2025

$973M

Forecast, 2035

$2.86B

CAGR, 2026 - 2035

11.4%

The Flexible Solar Panels industry revenue is expected to be around $973.1 million in 2026 and expected to showcase growth with 11.4% CAGR between 2026 and 2035. Building on this outlook, the Flexible Solar Panels market is consolidating its role as a strategic pillar in the global renewable energy mix, supported by rising investments in lightweight solar modules, tighter carbon-reduction policies, and the accelerating shift toward decentralized and off-grid solar systems across both mature and emerging economies. Strong adoption in residential and commercial solar projects, which together account for 58.2% of end-use demand, combined with ongoing performance gains in thin-film solar panels and Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) solar technology, is reinforcing the sector’s competitiveness versus conventional rigid modules and enhancing its long-term relevance for energy transition goals. Within product types, CIGS Flexible Solar Panels already led the industry with $469.03 million in sales in 2025, reflecting buyer preference for high-efficiency, durable, and aesthetically adaptable solutions suited to diverse installation environments.

Flexible Solar Panels are ultra-light, bendable photovoltaic laminates that leverage advanced thin-film architectures such as CIGS to deliver reliable power while conforming to curved or weight-sensitive surfaces, reducing mounting complexity and structural load. Their key features including low weight, mechanical flexibility, resistance to micro-cracking, and easier installation compared with glass-based modules make them ideal for rooftops with limited load capacity, building-integrated photovoltaics, transport applications, and portable solar solutions. Major applications span residential rooftops, commercial and industrial facilities, logistics warehouses, marine vessels, and RV solar kits, with recent demand increasingly driven by innovations in high-efficiency flexible photovoltaic panels, improved durability and encapsulation materials, and the integration of smart monitoring and control systems that optimize energy yield and system reliability.

Flexible Solar Panels market outlook with forecast trends, drivers, opportunities, supply chain, and competition 2025-2035
Flexible Solar Panels Market Outlook

Market Key Insights

  • The Flexible Solar Panels market is projected to grow from $973.1 million in 2025 to $2.86 billion in 2035. This represents a CAGR of 11.4%, reflecting rising demand across Portable Power Generation, Building Integrated Photovoltaics, and Wearable Technology.

  • PowerFilm Solar, MiaSolé, and Sunflare are among the leading players in this market, shaping its competitive landscape.

  • U.S. and China are the top markets within the Flexible Solar Panels market and are expected to observe the growth CAGR of 8.4% to 12.0% between 2025 and 2030.

  • Emerging markets including Brazil, Nigeria and Vietnam are expected to observe highest growth with CAGR ranging between 11.0% to 14.3%.

  • Transition like Adoption of Organic Materials is expected to add $181 million to the Flexible Solar Panels market growth by 2030.

  • The Flexible Solar Panels market is set to add $1.9 billion between 2025 and 2035, with manufacturer targeting Commercial & Industrial Application projected to gain a larger market share.

  • With

    increasing focus on renewable energy, and

    Technological Advancements, Flexible Solar Panels market to expand 196% between 2025 and 2035.

flexible solar panels market size with pie charts of major and emerging country share, CAGR, trends for 2025 and 2032
Flexible Solar Panels - Country Share Analysis

Opportunities in the Flexible Solar Panels

In European commercial real estate, Flexible Solar Panels support building-integrated photovoltaics on curved facades and lightweight roofs where traditional modules are also restricted. Thin-film solar technology, particularly CIGS flexible panels and amorphous silicon, enables industrial solar retrofits without reinforcement, reducing energy costs for warehouses, hubs, and retail chains. As amorphous silicon revenue rises globally from $217.97 million in 2025 to $327.76 million by 2030, demand from space-constrained urban rooftops will accelerate premium, aesthetics-driven installations.

Growth Opportunities in North America and Asia-Pacific

In North America, Flexible Solar Panels adoption is increasingly anchored in the residential segment, where lightweight solar panels and portable solar panels address rooftop, cabin, and solar for RV and marine applications as homeowners seek resilient backup and energy independence. Competitive dynamics are defined by established crystalline PV brands extending into flexible PV panels, alongside specialist thin film solar technology manufacturers and private-label assemblers, which heightens pressure on module efficiency, durability, and certification breadth. Top opportunities arise in premium, ultra-durable flexible solar modules tailored to snow loads, high winds, and complex roof geometries, complemented by bundled monitoring and financing solutions that can also unlock spillover demand in small commercial rooftop solar projects. Regional drivers include escalating electricity tariffs, net-metering and tax-credit frameworks, and growing demand for low-profile building-integrated photovoltaics, favouring suppliers that can offer tested mounting systems, rapid-install kits, and strong installer training programs. Investment priority should centre on deep partnerships with residential installers, outdoor-equipment OEMs, and distribution platforms that serve off-grid solar solutions customers across remote and recreational markets.
In Asia-Pacific, Flexible Solar Panels growth is most closely tied to the industrial end-use, as manufacturers, logistics parks, and mining operators deploy lightweight solar panels on expansive metal roofs and temporary structures where conventional modules are impractical. Competition is led by regional producers scaling thin film solar technology and flexible PV panels within cost-competitive manufacturing clusters, intensifying scrutiny on long-term performance, local content, and bankability in industrial tenders. Top opportunities focus on rugged, high-temperature flexible solar modules engineered for humid, coastal, and desert environments, integrated into turnkey industrial solar power packages that bundle design, EPC execution, and performance guarantees for large energy users. Core regional drivers include decarbonisation mandates, rising industrial power tariffs, and corporate emissions disclosure requirements, which accelerate adoption of on-site generation and hybrid off-grid solar solutions across industrial estates. Strategic investment should emphasise localized assembly, alliances with industrial park developers and ESCOs, and differentiated warranties and service models that address corrosion, thermal stress, and stringent uptime expectations in mission-critical facilities.

Market Dynamics and Supply Chain

01

Driver: Lightweight Design Demand and Thin Film Efficiency Improvements Accelerating Flexible Panel Adoption

Rising demand for lightweight solar solutions is also driving flexible solar panel adoption across mobility focused sectors. Portable electronics, transportation, and temporary installations increasingly require power sources that add minimal weight and tolerate bending, creating strong preference for flexible formats. At the same time, thin film efficiency improvements are also strengthening commercial viability. also advances in CIGS deposition, roll to roll manufacturing, and encapsulation have also improved power output, durability, and lifespan. These gains narrow the performance gap with rigid modules while preserving flexibility advantages. Together, lightweight demand and efficiency gains enable broader use in portable power, building integrated photovoltaics, and emerging consumer products. Manufacturers benefit from expanding addressable markets, while end users gain easier installation and reduced structural constraints. This combined growth driver continues to push investment into materials science, production scaling, and flexible module performance optimization worldwide. This trend supports long term adoption across diverse climates, applications, and cost sensitive energy markets.
Growing integration of solar harvesting into consumer electronics is also a major driver for flexible solar panels. Wearables, smart bags, sensors, and IoT devices increasingly demand self powering capabilities to extend battery life and reduce charging dependence. Flexible panels enable seamless integration onto curved surfaces without compromising comfort or aesthetics. Recent also advances in organic photovoltaics and ultra thin amorphous silicon cells allow low power generation under indoor and low light conditions. This supports adoption in health monitoring, logistics tracking, and defense equipment. As device miniaturization continues, manufacturers favor flexible modules that conform to compact designs. This driver strengthens collaboration between solar material developers and electronics brands, accelerating commercialization and creating steady demand growth for flexible solar panels. Such convergence enhances product differentiation, improves user experience, and supports premium pricing strategies globally.
02

Restraint: Lower Efficiency and Power Density Compared to Rigid Solar Panels Limits Market Uptake

Flexible solar panels typically deliver lower efficiency and power density than conventional crystalline silicon modules, which limits their appeal in applications where space and energy yield are critical. For example, rooftop and commercial solar projects favor high-efficiency rigid panels to maximize output per square meter, reducing revenue opportunities for flexible module makers. This performance gap also affects investor confidence in industrial-scale renewable installations. Lower energy output means longer payback periods, discouraging adoption in cost conscious segments. As a result, some end users postpone or reject flexible solutions for primary power generation, slowing overall market expansion and reinforcing rigid panel dominance.
03

Opportunity: Off-grid recreational vehicles using flexible solar panels in North America and Marine and boating consumers installing flexible solar panels in Asia-Pacific

Demand from off-grid travelers and RV owners is rising as Flexible Solar Panels provide portable solar power without significant weight or structural impact. Lightweight solar modules and CIGS flexible panels can curve over vehicle roofs, unlocking solar rooftops for RVs and camping solar kits where rigid modules are impractical. With CIGS revenue forecast to rise globally from $469.03 million in 2025 to $887.35 million by 2030, this 13.6% CAGR segment should dominate off-grid solar solutions in North American recreational vehicles.
Rising energy needs among boat owners and island tourism operators create a strong marine solar installations opportunity for Flexible Solar Panels across Asia-Pacific. Salt-resistant lightweight solar modules and CIGS flexible panels can be laminated onto curved decks and awnings, powering navigation, refrigeration, and communications without noisy generators. With Cadmium Tellurium and other thin-film types together projected to grow globally from $286.09 million in 2025 to $458.13 million by 2030, marine and coastal applications will increasingly prioritize durable, low-profile generation.
04

Challenge: Durability Issues and Material Degradation in Harsh Environments Curtail Long-Term Adoption

Durability and long term stability remain significant restraints for flexible solar panels, especially in outdoor or extreme environments. Flexible modules using thin film or organic materials can degrade faster under UV exposure, temperature cycling, and mechanical stress. For instance, wearable technology and portable systems exposed to frequent bending and abrasion may show performance deterioration over time, increasing maintenance costs and customer reluctance. This challenge influences demand behavior by constraining flexible panels to niche or secondary power roles rather than primary energy sources, which in turn limits revenue growth and slows broader commercial penetration.

Supply Chain Landscape

1

Flexible Solar Panels

3MDuPontDow
2

Thin-Film Cells

MiaSoléSunflare
3

Lightweight Modules

PowerFilm SolarSolbian Energie Alternative SrlSungold Solar
4

Portable Applications

Portable Off-Grid ElectronicsMarine and Boating Systems
Flexible Solar Panels - Supply Chain

Use Cases of Flexible Solar Panels in Portable Power Generation & Wearable Technology

Portable Power Generation : Portable power generation is one of the most established applications for flexible solar panels, especially in outdoor, emergency, and off grid use cases. Thin film flexible solar panels based on amorphous silicon and CIGS technology are commonly used due to their lightweight structure, foldability, and durability. These panels are widely adopted by campers, military units, disaster response teams, and remote workers to charge batteries, power small electronics, and support mobile energy systems. Their ability to be rolled, folded, or attached to backpacks and tents makes them ideal where rigid panels are impractical, supporting reliable power access in mobile and temporary environments.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics : In building integrated photovoltaics, flexible solar panels are increasingly used for architectural surfaces where traditional rigid modules are unsuitable. Lightweight CIGS and organic photovoltaic flexible panels are applied to curved roofs, facades, skylights, and retrofitted building surfaces without adding significant structural load. Commercial buildings, warehouses, and modern residential projects use these panels to generate on site renewable energy while maintaining design flexibility. Their low profile appearance and ease of installation reduce construction complexity and installation time. This application supports urban sustainability goals by enabling energy generation in space constrained environments where conventional rooftop systems face limitations.
Wearable Technology : Wearable technology represents a fast growing application for flexible solar panels, driven by demand for self powered electronics. Ultra thin organic and amorphous silicon flexible panels are commonly integrated into smart clothing, backpacks, health monitoring devices, and outdoor gear. These panels provide continuous low power energy supply for sensors, GPS trackers, and communication devices, reducing dependence on frequent battery charging. Wearable brands and defense organizations benefit from flexible panels that conform to body movement without compromising comfort or durability. This application highlights the role of flexible solar panels in enabling energy autonomy for compact and portable electronic systems.

Recent Developments

Recent developments in the flexible solar panels market show strong momentum in smart energy systems, IoT enabled photovoltaics, and lightweight renewable power solutions. A key trend is the integration of real time monitoring, machine learning optimization, and predictive maintenance to improve efficiency and reliability in portable and building integrated applications. Manufacturers are also advancing thin film solar technologies and expanding production to meet growing demand from wearable electronics, off grid systems, and electric mobility sectors. These shifts reinforce flexible panels as versatile, connected energy sources.

May 2025 : PowerFilm Solar released its 400 W SuperFlex solar panel featuring an integrated edge seal that improves durability and installation ease, especially for vehicles, fleets, and portable energy solutions. This product launch expands PowerFilm’s supply capability for high‑output flexible photovoltaics used in mobile applications.
April 2024 : MiaSole announced the continuation of a global partnership with TRAILAR to provide flexible CIGS solar solutions for renewable, on‑vehicle power systems. The collaboration focuses on deploying thin‑film flexible panels on transport platforms, helping expand clean energy integration in mobility applications.

Impact of Industry Transitions on the Flexible Solar Panels Market

As a core segment of the Renewable Energy industry, the Flexible Solar Panels market develops in line with broader industry shifts. Over recent years, transitions such as Adoption of Organic Materials and Rise of IoT in Energy Sector have redefined priorities across the Renewable Energy sector, influencing how the Flexible Solar Panels market evolves in terms of demand, applications and competitive dynamics. These transitions highlight the structural changes shaping long-term growth opportunities.
01

Adoption of Organic Materials

In the Flexible Solar Panels market, the strategic shift toward organic photovoltaic materials such as eco-friendly polymers and perovskite solar cells is reshaping competitive dynamics by combining sustainability with superior performance attributes. These lightweight, thin-film solar technologies reduce material and manufacturing costs while enabling new applications in portable solar chargers, wearable solar devices, and building-integrated photovoltaics, directly addressing demand for sustainable energy solutions and high design flexibility. By replacing fossil fuel-based inputs with low-impact, recyclable materials, manufacturers can significantly enhance environmental credentials and lifecycle efficiency. Critically, this transition to organic materials is not only a technological upgrade but a quantifiable growth engine, projected to add approximately $181 million to the Flexible Solar Panels market by 2030, reinforcing its role as a key driver of long-term value creation in next-generation renewable energy systems.
02

Rise of IoT in Energy Sector

The rise of IoT in the energy sector is transforming flexible solar panels into smart, connected energy solutions. Embedded sensors and wireless connectivity enable real time performance monitoring, fault detection, and predictive maintenance, improving system reliability and energy output. Machine learning algorithms analyze generation data to optimize panel orientation and usage patterns, especially in portable power and building integrated photovoltaics. This transition is influencing adjacent industries such as smart buildings, logistics, and consumer electronics, where connected energy sources support automation and energy management platforms. For example, smart facades now integrate flexible panels with IoT systems to balance power demand, while wearable technology benefits from intelligent energy tracking. Overall, IoT integration is accelerating adoption by enhancing efficiency, extending product life, and enabling data driven energy management across applications.