European Utility-Scale Solar - The Challenge of Capturing Value in a Volatile Market

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Recording of Monday, June 22, 2026 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 11:57 .

Overview of Renewable Energy Trends and Challenges in Europe

The European power sector is characterized by diverse energy sources, with countries like France depending on nuclear energy, while the Nordics utilize hydro and wind. Solar energy installations are growing rapidly, adding over 70 gigawatts annually, yet this growth is inconsistent, facing fluctuations in market dynamics. Onshore wind growth remains modest, and while offshore wind is expanding, it originates from a small base. Battery technology is experiencing the most significant advancement, poised to play a crucial role in the future energy landscape. The increased penetration of solar PV is contributing to a decline in revenues for solar producers, driven by market pricing and ongoing cannibalization. Additionally, the lack of flexibility in solar power projects may distort market signals and hinder investments. Future energy demand is largely contingent upon the growth of electric vehicles and data centers, with significant uncertainties looming about market conditions and revenue prospects.

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Speaker

Vegard Vollset
Head of Renewables & Power - EMEA
Rystad Energy AS
Norway

Solar's share of power generation across the EU has doubled in four years. Together with wind it surpassed gas and coal in 2025. Solar was also the only technology to meet its EU installation target. Yet 2025 marked the first market contraction in a decade, raising concerns about 2030 goals. This session brings together analysts and industry leaders to assess demand trends, price dynamics and solar energy's role in strengthening Europe's energy security and competitiveness.

Key topics:

  • Policy frameworks shaping EU solar markets
  • Supply, demand and price developments
  • Industry associations' executive perspectives on barriers and solutions
  • Discussing strategies to restore a sustainable growth momentum

Further Talks of this session:

Speaker

Josefin Berg
Associate Director
S&P Global

To Talk

Speaker

Dina Darshini
Head of Solar & Battery
LCP Delta
United Kingdom

To Talk

Speaker

Juan Monge
Principal Analyst
Wood Mackenzie
United Kingdom

To Talk

Speaker

Vegard Vollset
Head of Renewables & Power - EMEA
Rystad Energy AS
Norway

Paolo Rocco Viscontini
President
Italia Solare
Italy

Irene Mihai
Policy Director
Romanian Photovoltaic Industry Association (RPIA)
Romania

José Donoso
CEO
Unión Española Fotovoltaica (UNEF)
Spain

To Talk

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