Solar energy

Generating energy from the sun is already very popular in Germany, thanks to the extensive state subsidy programme: we currently have around 1.3 million solar facilities up and running. They are used to produce both electricity (photovoltaics) and heat (solar thermal applications).

In 2007 photovoltaics achieved a turnover of €5.5 billion and made up 1% of German electricity consumption. Germany is also a leader in the development and production of new solar technologies. For example around 50% of the photovoltaic production technology used throughout the world comes from German machine and plant manufacturers. Solar thermal companies recorded sales of €850 million. A new growth market is opening up as the technology has now matured and state subsidy programmes (market incentive programme) have been changed.