Solar thermal market grows 51.4% in the European Union

[Fledermaus]

The European Union’s solar thermal market has clearly exceeded forecasts with 51.4% growth in 2008, equivalent to approximately 3,238.5 MWth. According to data presented in the latest EurObserv'ER solar thermal barometer, 20,000 MWth of solar thermal capacity was in service in the European Union at the end of 2008. Germany is outright leader, followed by Austria and Greece.

The European solar thermal system market grew spectacularly in 2008 with over 4.6 million m2 installed, compared to less than 3.1 million m2 in 2007. It is the first time that the symbolic 4 million m2 has been exceeded and was largely due to the doubling of the German market, although strong growth in Southern Europe also played a vital part. EurObserv'ER estimates that around 50,000 jobs have been created in the European solar thermal industry during 2008, while turnover has exceeded €3,000 million. Although 2009 is looking uncertain, the medium and long-term growth prospects for the solar thermal market are still very positive.

The barometer indicates that if market growth in terms of surface area sold is converted into installed thermal energy, taking into account the effect of decommissioning old systems, estimated solar thermal capacity in service in the EU amounted to 19,982.7 MWth at the end of 2008. In 2007, this figure was 16,818.5 MWth, 18.8% lower than in 2008. Germany has the highest total installed capacity with over 11.3 million m2 of capacity in service, followed by Austria (4 million m2) and Greece (3.9 million m2). Nevertheless, after Germany – which experienced spectacular growth of 100% during 2008 – Spain, Italy and France have all installed the most capacity during 2008.

http://www.renewableenergymagazine.com/paginas/Contenidosecciones.asp?ID=16&Cod=3646&Tipo=&Nombre=Solar%20thermal