Technologies - Solar Power

Photovoltaic solar power (PV)

In 2004 the global rate of growth in the solar electricity sector was 57%. Its potential is enormous and it is a highly popular source of power, but remains costly compared to other forms of electricity production.

To bring down costs it is essential that the public services and the municipalities become involved in order to solve these technical and administrative problems.

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For more information: European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA)

Thermal solar energy (solar heating)

The solar heating of water offers major potential in the building industry, which represents 40% of the EU's energy consumption and which is increasing rapidly.

European market growth has been slow at an annual pace of 12%. Germany is still the leader in terms of market volume, with 47% of the European market. It is followed by Greece (14%), Austria (12%) and Spain (6%) but Cyprus is leading in terms of installed capacity with 431 kWth/1.000 inhabitants. Europe is leading in technology, but represents only 9% of the global market. China alone holds 78% of the world market. However, the market is still underexploited. Active promotion, distribution networks and commercial innovations are required.

For more information: European Solar Thermal Industry - ESTIF

Links

• International Solar Energy Society (ISES)