How does solar energy work in Europe?

Solar power consists of photovoltaics (PV) and solar thermal energy in the European Union (EU). In 2010, the €2.6 billion European solar heating sectors consisted of small and medium-sized businesses, generated 17.3 terawatt-hours (TWh) of energy, employed 33,500 workers, and created one new job for every 80 kW of added capacity. [ 1 ]

How does the EU support the European solar PV manufacturing sector?

Over the last years, the EU has taken initiatives to strengthen its support to the European solar PV manufacturing sector, which includes several globally competitive companies in several steps of the value chain.

Why is solar energy so popular in Europe?

Solar energy is cheap, clean and flexible. The cost of solar power decreased by 82% between 2010-2020, making it the most competitive source of electricity in many parts of the EU. The EU solar generation capacity keeps increasing and reached, according to SolarPower Europe, an estimated 259.99 GW in 2023.

Why is solar energy important in the EU?

Reducing the EU’s dependence on fossil fuels, solar energy plays a key role in both the clean energy transition and the REPowerEU plan. Solar energy technologies convert sunlight into energy, either as electricity (photovoltaics and concentrated solar power) or in the form of solar heat. Solar is the fastest growing energy source in the EU.

What is the European solar PV industry alliance?

The European Solar PV Industry Alliance was by the Commission together with industrial actors, research institutes, associations and other relevant parties on 9 December 2022 to support the objectives of the EU's Solar Energy Strategy.

Is solar power a competitive source of electricity in the EU?

The cost of solar power decreased by 82% between 2010-2020, making it the most competitive source of electricity in many parts of the EU. The EU solar generation capacity keeps increasing and reached, according to SolarPower Europe, an estimated 259.99 GW in 2023. The EU has long been a front-runner in the roll-out of solar energy.