Italy Solar Encapsulation Market Overview, 2030

The solar encapsulation sector in Italy has been distinctly influenced by the favorable sunny conditions of the southern regions, where high levels of sun exposure and elevated temperatures for modules place considerable strain on encapsulant materials. The initial prevalence of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) was notable in Italian solar projects, especially during the solar surge of the late 2000s. Nevertheless, extended exposure to UV light and thermal fluctuations in areas like Sicily, Calabria, and Puglia uncovered deficiencies in the material. Installed modules frequently displayed yellowing, release of acetic acid, and diminished optical transmission, which adversely affected energy output and long-term durability. These degradation issues not only hindered performance but also raised alarms about financing viability, leading developers and investors to seek more durable encapsulation alternatives. This situation hastened the use of POE (polyolefin elastomers) and ionomer encapsulants, particularly in large-scale operations in the hotter southern zones. The enhanced resistance of POE to potential-induced degradation (PID) and its durability against UV radiation made it ideal for glass-glass and bifacial modules, while ionomer provided better mechanical strength and thermal endurance, ensuring modules could endure extended exposure without significant performance degradation. Both materials became essential in extending module lifespans and achieving alignment with international certification standards, enhancing the appeal of Italian projects to global investors. On the R&D front, Italian laminators and international suppliers catering to the market have concentrated on high-efficiency lamination methods. With the extensive deployments seen during times of generous incentive programs and ongoing needs for competitively priced solar solutions, encapsulant research and development has prioritized fast-curing EVA and POE formulations that lower cycle times while maintaining strong adhesion and optical performance. Moreover, new chemical compositions that incorporate advanced UV blockers, antioxidants, and edge-seal enhancements are under investigation to endure the combined pressures of southern Italy’s intense sunlight and coastal moisture.

According to the research report, ""Italy Solar Encapsulation Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Italy Solar Encapsulation market is anticipated to add to more than USD 80 Million by 2025–30. Italy's solar encapsulation sector is beginning a fresh growth phase, propelled by rooftop projects in city areas and extensive utility endeavors throughout the southern regions. The rise of rooftop installations has gained speed due to EU and national incentives designed to promote distributed generation, particularly within residential, commercial, and industrial contexts. This urban development has fostered a consistent need for encapsulants tailored for efficient crystalline modules that optimize production in limited rooftop areas. Concurrently, southern locales like Sicily, Calabria, and Apulia remain at the forefront of utility-scale growth, where encapsulants are required to endure severe UV exposure, thermal strain, and coastal moisture. This two-part market structure emphasizes Italy's dependence on high-quality materials combining resilience with competitive pricing. A significant development impacting the market is the rise in usage of anti-PID encapsulant types, especially POE and advanced EVA compositions, as Italy’s module portfolio evolves towards bifacial and high-efficiency N-type cells. Initiatives aimed at repowering are also picking up steam, as older installations from the 2008–2013 solar surge encounter reduced efficacy due to EVA deterioration and yellowing of encapsulants. By upgrading panels or incorporating new encapsulation technologies, developers can prolong asset life and enhance functionality, making repowering a vital growth factor for suppliers. In Italy, market participants include a blend of local laminators and module manufacturers, who incorporate encapsulants into their production processes, alongside international film producers such as DuPont, 3M, and other specialized materials firms. This blend fosters local adaptability while ensuring access to global research and development resources. From a regulatory perspective, CEI and IEC certifications are crucial, particularly for refinancing and obtaining insurance for both new and existing solar initiatives.

In Italy, by materials is divided into Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB), Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Ionomer and Polyolefin the selection of encapsulation materials significantly mirrors the country's geographical variation and architectural environment. EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) continues to be the leading material, especially in rooftop installations that characterize the residential and commercial solar sectors. Italian urban centers like Milan, Turin, and Bologna have embraced rooftop PV systems widely, where affordability and established effectiveness render EVA as the top choice. Advances in formulation such as low-acid evolution and quicker curing grades have enabled EVA to keep its position, balancing cost-effectiveness with dependable adhesion and optical transparency. Conversely, in coastal and southern solar parks, where dampness, salty air, and intense sunlight create more challenging conditions, POE (polyolefin elastomers) is increasingly utilized. Utility projects in areas like Sicily, Calabria, and Apulia depend on POE’s enhanced resistance to potential-induced degradation (PID), in terms to its UV and moisture resistance, which helps ensure the longevity of modules. POE is also crucial for bifacial and glass-glass modules, which are growing in popularity in Italy as there’s a need to optimize energy gains in land-limited or high-cost-per-watt initiatives. Although it costs more, POE’s strength positions it as a smart option for developers seeking to obtain long-term financing and performance assurances. A distinctly Italian element is the significance of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) in heritage-friendly BIPV (building-integrated photovoltaics). In historic places like Florence, Rome, and Venice, where architectural preservation regulations limit the look of modern fittings, PVB-based encapsulants are used in solar façades, skylights, and curtain wall systems. Their optical clarity, compatibility with laminated safety glass, and solid adhesion render them ideal for integrating solar technology into heritage-sensitive buildings. This approach enables Italy to advance its renewable energy goals while honoring its cultural and architectural heritage.

In Italy by technology is divided into Crystalline Silicon Solar and Thin-Film Solar. solar technology based on crystalline silicon remains the leading force in the installation market, comprising the bulk of both rooftop and utility-scale setups. Crystalline panels especially mono-PERC as well as the increasingly popular TOPCon and heterojunction (HJT) designs are preferred due to their high efficiency, dependability, and compatibility with conventional encapsulants such as EVA and POE. Urban rooftop markets in cities like Milan, Rome, and Naples heavily rely on crystalline panels to optimize production in constrained areas, where efficiency per square meter is crucial. For utility-scale initiatives in the sun-drenched southern parts of the country, crystalline technology is also the norm, accompanied by robust encapsulation materials that are designed to endure extreme UV exposure and temperature changes. Furthermore, Italy's financial and insurance frameworks bolster this leading position, as crystalline silicon holds the longest history of performance and provides the greatest bankability for significant investors. On the other hand, thin-film solar technology is establishing a role in agrivoltaics and particular uses. Italy stands out in Europe for its agrivoltaic integration, especially in regions like Tuscany and Apulia, where solar power is merged with agriculture to deliver both sustainable energy and shade for crops. Thin-film panels, being light and semi-transparent, along with their flexible deployment capabilities, fit well into this area. While their efficiency lags behind that of crystalline panels, their versatility in applications where conventional rigid panels are unsuitable offsets this. For instance, thin-film modules with UV-stable laminates are applied in greenhouses, under vineyard covers, and in systems for crops that tolerate shade. Italian research institutions are testing thin-film in flexible rooftops and lightweight constructions, broadening applications in buildings where crystalline panels might create structural issues.

Italy's solar encapsulation sector indicates by application is divided into Ground-mounted, Building-integrated photovoltaic, Floating photovoltaic and Others (Automotive, Construction, and Electronics) a varied application environment influenced by population density, cultural preservation, and advanced renewable incorporation. Rooftop PV is the most common application, especially prevalent in residential and commercial properties. Areas such as Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Veneto illustrate compact urban installations where rooftops offer the most effective solar opportunities. In these regions, encapsulants like EVA and POE play an essential role in maintaining long-lasting module performance amid diverse weather conditions, from heavy snow in the north to intense heat in the south. This rooftop category is further bolstered by governmental incentives, solidifying its role in Italy’s renewable energy framework. In the domain of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV), Italy is prominent due to its architectural and cultural significance. Cities such as Florence, Rome, and Venice exemplify how to align historical conservation with present-day energy needs. Within these settings, encapsulants like PVB and ionomer-based films are selected for their compatibility with laminated safety glass, allowing for smooth integration into façades, skylights, and rooftops while fulfilling aesthetic standards. BIPV in historic cities has emerged as both a technological advancement and a cultural imperative, merging renewable initiatives with preservation aims. Floating PV (FPV) is an upcoming but strategically vital application. Pilot initiatives in Lombardy and northern areas are exploring FPV systems on lakes and reservoirs, where encapsulation must endure elevated humidity, hydrostatic pressure, and biofouling challenges. Innovative POE-based encapsulants are increasingly utilized to ensure module durability in these aquatic environments. Solar façades in building projects are increasingly popular, particularly in contemporary smart structures in Milan and Turin. The encapsulation in this area must ensure optical clarity, structural strength, and UV durability, supporting multifunctional glass façades that produce energy while enhancing modern architectural aesthetics.

Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Solar Encapsulation Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Materials
• Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
• Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
• Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB)
• Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)
• Ionomer
• Polyolefin

By Technology
• Crystalline Silicon Solar
• Thin-Film Solar

By Application
• Ground-mounted
• Building-integrated photovoltaic
• Floating photovoltaic
• Others (Automotive, Construction, and Electronics) Show more