Technology transfer, indigenous innovation and leapfrogging in green technology: the solar-PV industry in China and India

Abstract

In recent years China and India have achieved tremendous technological progress and development in the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry. Using case studies, this paper analyses and compares the technology progress in the solar PV industry in China and India, and discusses the role national innovation systems played in sustaining technology acquisition, adaptation and development. It illustrates that both countries adopted a strategy of mixing and sequencing different technology transfer and indigenous innovation mechanisms. The experience of both countries also suggests that a functional national environmental innovation system is important in sustaining and advancing technology acquisition, adaptation and development. This paper provides an alternative pathway for developing countries to follow in catching up with developed countries in the emergent green industries and in leapfrogging towards an internationally competitive green economy.