HCSS Addressed European Polysilicon Supply Chain Risks
Experts met to discuss the strategic vulnerabilities facing European solar and semiconductor material production.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Energy
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The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS) convened a roundtable discussion to examine the risks inherent in European polysilicon supply chains. The session focused on the continent's inability to support domestic solar panel manufacturing through current production capacities.
Why it matters
Europe faces a strategic vulnerability due to its declining position in the global polysilicon supply chain. Current financing and subsidy frameworks are insufficient to mitigate the high risk profile associated with critical raw material projects.
The HCSS analysis identified 3 core priorities for the region, including the need for coordinated supply chains and targeted EU financing. The report follows an assessment that existing European production capacity is insufficient for domestic solar ambitions.
The players
The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS)
This is an independent policy think tank based in the Netherlands that specializes in geopolitics and strategic analysis.
Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate
This Dutch government department is responsible for policies related to energy, climate, and economic stability.
Ministry of Defence
This government entity oversees the national security and military interests of the Netherlands.
ING
This is a major Dutch multinational banking and financial services institution.
The details
The closed-door event brought together stakeholders from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, the Ministry of Defence, and ING to coordinate action across solar and semiconductor value chains. The resulting policy brief argues that a new polysilicon plant could serve as the anchor for building a more secure and robust European industrial ecosystem.
Timeline
HCSS hosted the closed-door roundtable discussion on October 6, 2026.
A new policy brief regarding the discussion was published during the week of October 9, 2026.
The Big Picture
The assessment of polysilicon supply chains follows the objectives set by the European Union's Critical Raw Materials Act to reduce dependency on non-European imports. The research indicates that without structural shifts, the current regional production landscape contradicts the goals of the act.
A successful expansion of European polysilicon production could lead to more stable pricing and supply for solar energy components in the coming years. Conversely, if current risk profiles remain unaddressed, the region may continue to face higher costs for renewable energy hardware.
The takeaway
Securing a domestic supply chain is critical to insulating European industry from geopolitical instability in raw material markets. Leaders should focus on aligning financial incentives with the specific risks inherent in critical raw material manufacturing.
Further reading
For more information on the evolving landscape of European power infrastructure, visit the Energy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by HCSS.
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Should European nations prioritize local production of critical raw materials over international supply chains?
