German PV capacity to reach 41.6 GWp by 2014

NOIDA, INDIA: According to our latest research report “German Photovoltaic Market Analysis”, Germany has been the global leader in photovoltaic industry during the past decade. Energy import dependency, limited fossil & nuclear resources, and vast availability of solar radiation across the nation have infused solar photovoltaic industry developments in the country.

However, economic slowdown and weak economy had forced the government to drastically cut subsidies for the industry and driven authorities to formulate FIT cuts. Despite this fact, it is anticipated that the cumulative photovoltaic capacity will reach 41.6 GWp by 2014.

Our study reveals that, Germany has been the most dominant PV market in the world during previous decade. The country captured over half of the global PV installations in 2010 and sustained its top position in the global PV arena. The industry has been receiving notable support from the government in the form of various programs aimed at meeting increased energy needs through renewable sources.

Further, our report states that at the segment level, commercial installations have been leading the industry followed by residential installations. Attractive incentives and long term economic benefits encouraged investors to opt for commercial (mainly rooftop) systems installations and uplifted the overall industry developments.

However, in coming years, it is anticipated that residential PV installations will orchestrate substantial increase in market share as proposed FIT cuts will shift consumer preference from large-scale installations to small & medium scale system developments.