Does the European solar PV industry need to start from scratch?

Although it is currently small, the European solar PV industry does not have to start entirely from scratch (Exhibit 3).

Are solar-PV manufacturing costs at a disadvantage?

Our analysis suggests that the costs of solar-PV manufacturing in Europe at scale for the full value chain will be at a 20 to 25 percent disadvantage against current lowest cost levels—if scale and excellence effects have been achieved.

Can a PV system be installed on a roof?

Another possibility is that the PV system is mounted on load distribution plates, for example small-area aluminum profiles, and not on ground rails, thus ensuring roof drainage in all directions.

Are solar-PV companies refocusing investments from Europe to other regions?

Indeed, there are already indications of solar-PV companies refocusing investments from Europe to other regions—REC Solar recently announced it is canceling its plans for a 4 GW French plant, despite being selected in July to receive an EU grant. 22

Why are European solar-PV prices falling?

While European markets have enjoyed the benefits of falling solar-PV costs, the geopolitical context is evolving. The Ukraine conflict has exposed the risk of relying on imports for critical energy, and Europe is becoming increasingly sensitive to the potential supply-chain risks for solar-PV products.

Why do PV panels have movable connectors?

This allows the PV panels to lie mechanically stress-free on the mounting system. Cell damage to the modules, i.e. a drop in system performance, is thus prevented. Roof supports with movable connectors can also ensure thermal decoupling of the mounting system and thus also prevent damage to the roof material.