Panel Discussion of the session Solar Manufacturing in Europe

Recording of Wednesday, May 07, 2025 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2025 | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 39:24 .

European Industry Urges Unified Strategy and Innovation to Tackle Global Competition and Rising Costs.

The discussion underscores the necessity for a cohesive European technological and industrial policy to drive innovation while avoiding over-reliance on specific technologies or monopolistic powers like China. It advocates for Europe to maintain technological neutrality, fostering strategic partnerships within its borders to bolster capabilities. Katharina David from K2 Systems GmbH expresses optimism about Europe's solar production potential but stresses realism in achieving targets such as those set by the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA). She emphasizes high-quality standards, cybersecurity, local production benefits under "Made in Europe" initiatives, and decentralized operational control across Europe for system stability against external dependencies. Discussions highlight challenges in renewable energy sectors—particularly solar technology—and market dynamics involving collaboration among European countries through gigafactories. The conversation also touches upon global trade dynamics affected by tariffs between regions like Europe, USA, and China. Despite uncertainties impacting investments due to tariff volatility—as noted by Caterina from SMA—the dialogue suggests leveraging Europe's political stability amid these challenges could present opportunities. Further discussions focus on industrial investment hurdles within aluminum sectors where fluctuating prices deter self-sufficiency despite collaborative strengths exemplified by Airbus-like initiatives aimed at decarbonization supported through regulatory revisions aligned with clean industry goals. Concerns are raised regarding support mechanisms contrasting China's subsidy model that allows significant power generation per module annually; suggesting diverse regional technologies foster competition without heavy financial burdens via long-term public subsidies rather than short-lived incentives is crucial for sustained growth.

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Speaker

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

Talk of session: Solar Manufacturing in Europe: Progress, Setbacks & Outlook

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: