Will Europe reach 600 GW of installed solar photovoltaics by 2030?

A goal of the strategy is to reach nearly 600 GW of installed solar photovoltaics (PV) capacity by 2030. While Europe is a pioneer in the definition of new policy requirements to ensure the circularity and sustainability of PV products, its manufacturing capabilities are limited.

Should we accelerate solar PV installation rate?

Accelerating the annual PV installation rate compared to the current value is a no-regret option since all the LTS scenarios require PV capacity to at least double in size by 2030. Indeed, as explained above, solar PV module demand for the EU and UK would increase from 16.5 GW DC in 2019 to 50 GW DC in 2030.

Should PV modules be scaled up?

The overall headline benchmark considers the need for scaling up manufacturing capacity not only for end-products (PV modules) but also for specific components, for instance, wafers, ingots, solar cells, glass and others. The EU is a front runner in laying the ground for the sustainability requirements for PV products.

What is the global solar PV manufacturing capacity in 2022?

In 2022, global solar PV manufacturing capacity increased by over 70% to reach almost 450 GW, with China accounting for over 95% of new facilities throughout the supply chain. The latest IEA data indicate that current (2024) module manufacturing capacity in China exceeds 800 GW .

How will EU solar energy policy affect PV installation?

In light of the recent commitments laid down in the EU Solar Energy Strategy (European Commission, 2022a) to boost the installation of PV modules on EU buildings, this increase can be expected to occur at an even faster pace.

Will solar PV module demand increase in the EU & UK?

Indeed, as explained above, solar PV module demand for the EU and UK would increase from 16.5 GW DC in 2019 to 50 GW DC in 2030. Reaching the climate targets requires carbon-neutral electricity supply produced by 83% from RES .