Solar Thermal Power: Europe Self-Sustains 90% of Demand

Europe’s solar thermal power sector is a standout in renewable energy, with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) meeting 90% of the region's demand. The European Union (EU) must now consider the needs of these enterprises to ensure continued self-sufficiency, according to Solar Heat Europe, which highlighted this during a discussion with Solarserver.

Europe’s Strong Solar Thermal Sector

Valérie Séjourné, head of Solar Heat Europe, explained that compared to other renewable energy sectors like photovoltaics, solar thermal power in Europe boasts a high degree of self-sufficiency. This sector’s broad base of SMEs spans countries such as Spain, Finland, Austria, Greece, and Cyprus, making it capable of fulfilling nearly all regional demand.

The Role of the Net Zero Industry Act in Supporting Solar Thermal

Earlier this year, the EU introduced the Net Zero Industry Act, identifying eight green technologies for which Europe should produce at least 40% of its needs, including solar thermal power. Séjourné expressed satisfaction that solar thermal was included in this list, highlighting the importance of aligning the requirements of the act with the capacities of SMEs. To ensure the burgeoning demand is met, policies must consider public procurement and sustainability criteria that benefit small businesses.

Financial Support and the Eurosun Conference

Financial predictability is crucial for the ongoing success of solar thermal power. The upcoming Eurosun solar thermal conference in Cyprus, from August 26 to 30, will address financial support for both residential and large-scale projects. Industry players and project developers will discuss the financial strategies required to boost the solar thermal market.

Ensuring Solar Thermal’s Place in the EU’s Green Agenda

Though the Fit-for-55 package has already led to significant legislation such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), more emphasis on solar thermal and Hybrid-PVT technologies is needed. The EPBD mandates rooftop solar installations over a specific period, but Séjourné emphasized the importance of ensuring all solar technologies receive equal consideration during its implementation.

The Potential for Growth in Solar Thermal Power

With 11 million rooftops in Europe equipped with solar heat systems, generating a total output of 41 GWth, the solar thermal sector holds vast potential for growth. Cyprus, the host of the Eurosun conference, leads the way in solar heat adoption with the highest per capita usage in Europe. This serves as an example of how other EU member states can maximize solar thermal potential in their regions.