Solar Power in Europe

Introduction

Solar power remains a hot topic in the European energy debate. Falling costs mean that solar energy is getting closer to grid parity. Meanwhile, feed-in tariffs are under pressure in several European markets.

Features and benefits

• The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of the European solar market and the key drivers.
• The report looks at investment trends in the sector.
• The report addresses the threat to European equipment manufacturers from lower cost sources.

Highlights

Solar photovoltaic (PV) module prices have fallen due to an oversupply of modules and lower demand from some European markets. Technology improvements and increased silicon production are also behind the drop in PV module prices. Also, lower feed-in tariff rates are reducing demand for solar PV modules, leading to further pressure on prices.Investments in renewable energy technologies globally increased by 5% in 2011 from 2010 levels, largely led by a 36% increase in investments in solar power technologies. However, the impact of stimulus funding will likely weaken beginning in 2012 as governments (specifically in the western world) reduce spending owing to budget constraints.

Your key questions answered

• What are the technology improvements in the solar sector and how will they lower costs and improve efficiency?
• What are the trends in the cost of solar PV systems? When will solar PV achieve grid parity?
• What is happening to feed-in tariffs?