Solar Is Using 19% Less Silver. The Deficit Is Getting Worse. Here’s Why That’s Bullish.

Solar photovoltaic manufacturers reduced silver consumption by 19% in 2026, to roughly 151 million ounces. Despite that reduction, the global silver market is heading for its sixth consecutive annual supply deficit of 46.3 million ounces — wider than the year before. The deficit is expanding because mine supply is contracting faster than industrial demand is falling.
