Drifting towards innovation: The co-evolution of patent networks, policy, and institutions in China’s solar photovoltaics industry

•Research considered the technological development of solar photovoltaics in China over the past 25 years.•Technological profiles and collaboration networks of PV innovators in China are investigated.•A gap between China’s large share in global PV market and its modest share of transnational patents.•Some evidence for technological catching-up in 1G cell technologies, solar panels, and electronics.•Role of foreign actors in co-patenting activities is surprisingly low and decreasing.