The photovoltaic industry is calling for immediate action: a recovery strategy and support for the entire solar energy value chain are needed. A meeting of EU ministers could decide the future of the sector.
Ministers responsible for industry in European Union countries met on October 6 to discuss the future of European solar energy production. The meeting coincided with the annual forum of the European Solar Industry Alliance (ESIA). Discussions focused on the implementation of the Carbon-Neutral Industry Act and other initiatives to bring solar panel production back to Europe.
Before the ministerial meeting, SolarPower Europe and the European Solar Manufacturing Council (ESMC) called for a detailed action plan that goes beyond the net-zero emissions law.
“The European photovoltaic industry is at a crossroads. Without immediate, coordinated action, Europe risks losing its remaining manufacturing base in the photovoltaic sector. We call on EU leaders to put the ambitious goals of the Net Zero Act into practice in industry,” said Walburga Hemetsberger, CEO of SolarPower Europe.
Recovery strategy and financial support
In a letter to the European Commission, the industry called for the establishment of a “European Action Plan 2030 for Photovoltaics,” which would include the recovery and development of production capacity throughout the solar energy value chain, reform of EU public procurement to reward “Made in Europe” technologies, the creation of a Clean Technology Production Fund with dedicated financial support (CAPEX and OPEX) for the solar sector, and the extension of operational support (OPEX) with greater involvement of the European Investment Bank (EIB).
Discussions and recommendations show that there is a growing consensus in Europe that rebuilding the photovoltaic industry is key to achieving climate goals, strengthening energy security, and developing a sustainable economy.
Through coordinated political, financial, and industrial action, the European Union is seeking to strengthen the solar energy sector and build a competitive, resilient clean energy ecosystem.