Recording of Wednesday, May 07, 2025 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2025 | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 39:24 .
The transcript from aiconver AI delves into the multifaceted role of artificial intelligence across various industries, underscoring its capacity to enhance efficiency and productivity. Key discussions focus on machine learning's ability to improve decision-making through data analysis and pattern recognition, alongside advancements in natural language processing (NLP) that enable more intuitive human-computer interactions. Ethical considerations are also addressed, emphasizing frameworks for responsible AI use while mitigating risks like bias or misuse. In parallel, the panel discussion featuring industry experts such as Jennifer Karle from the European Commission centers on Europe's solar energy sector amidst global market pressures. The conversation highlights strategic initiatives under the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), aiming to boost Europe’s solar production capabilities by fostering "European champions" in renewable energy and reducing dependency on dominant suppliers like China. Emphasis is placed on sustainability criteria within auctions and leveraging new technologies during China's overcapacity slowdown. Katharina David expresses cautious optimism about NZIA but critiques its scope regarding essential components like mounting structures—advocating for broader inclusion aligned with local sourcing goals. Discussions extend to challenges faced by aluminum sectors due to pricing issues stemming from investment deficits over two decades; collaborative efforts among manufacturers are encouraged for sustainable growth via premiums on European production. Overall, there's an optimistic outlook towards achieving ambitious targets amid complex geopolitical landscapes affecting investment viability across member states' markets—a sentiment echoed throughout dialogues focusing not only on technological advancement but also policy implementation balancing sustainability with economic competitiveness globally.
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Jennifer Karle
Policy Officer
DG GROW, European Commission
Belgium
Ing. Stefano Lorenzi
CEO
3SUN
Italy
Prof. Dr. Peter Fath
CEO
RCT Solutions GmbH
Germany
Katharina Eickelberg
Senior Vice President Global Communication & Sustainability
SMA Solar Technology AG
Deutschland
Katharina David
Co-CEO
K2 Systems GmbH
Germany
Amid rising geopolitical tensions, Europe's dependence on imported solar products continues to grow. While the European solar market is growing, domestic manufacturers across the entire value chain are struggling, losing market share, shutting down facilities, or exiting the sector due to declining profitability. So far, support from Brussels and national governments has been insufficient and too slow to create the conditions needed for a revival of European solar manufacturing. Now, hopes are pinned on the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), which aims to boost local production through domestic content requirements in auctions and public procurement. This session will provide: Update on the European solar manufacturing landscape across the value chain Cost-competitiveness analysis of European solar manufacturers Insights into policy support, investment opportunities, and start-up potential for European PV manufacturing High-level panel discussion on the future of solar manufacturing in Europe
Further Talks of this session:
Speaker
Dries Acke
Deputy CEO
SolarPower Europe
Belgium
Video is not available.
Speaker
Dries Acke
Deputy CEO
SolarPower Europe
Belgium
Speaker
Alan Tu
Solar Analyst
InfoLink Consulting Co,. Ltd.
China
Speaker
Prof. Dr. Peter Fath
CEO
RCT Solutions GmbH
Germany