Recording of Tuesday, May 06, 2025 | The smarter E Europe | Conference Program | Language: English | Duration: 21:45 .

Solar Industry Grapples with Rising Costs and Political Backlash, Experts Highlight Quality Control and Strategic Partnerships as Key Solutions

The discussion delves into the solar energy sector's complexities, emphasizing a collaborative approach across the value chain to manage costs effectively. Geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Chinese products, pose challenges for global solar deployment efforts. Businesses are expected to follow guidelines like Solar-Specific Initiatives (SSI), drawing from other industries' lessons such as Engie's Responsible Business Alliance. Upfront investments are deemed necessary to mitigate future risks and ensure quality amid rising demands for traceability and compliance within projects. Challenges include navigating complex regulations while managing cost pressures due to fluctuating component prices like panels and batteries. There is a call for stronger governmental support in regulatory frameworks, especially regarding storage solutions alongside photovoltaic systems (PV). The presentation also discusses managing multiple contracts in EPC projects where investors often squeeze margins but emphasizes that quality control remains crucial for success despite diverse project designs leading to inefficiencies with different contractors involved. It highlights shifting strategies towards more collaborative partnerships involving clients in design decisions based on their long-term goals amidst market risks such as negative pricing trends observed in Germany’s energy sector.

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Speaker

Stefan Müller
COO
Enerparc AG
Germany

Alexandra Fioux
Senior Construction Contracts Manager
Engie
Spain

Daniel Barandalla
Solar Advisory Lead EMEALA
UL LLC
U.S.

Talk of session: Utility-Scale Solar Power I: Trends in Development, Construction & Operation

The utility-scale solar segment expanded its market share in Europe last year despite growing challenges. Developers often still face long approval times, grid connection hurdles, and increasing local opposition to large ground-mounted projects. EPCs must navigate volatile prices and rapidly evolving product portfolios, while operators face declining market values for solar power in many European countries. Additionally, ESG compliance adds another layer of complexity across the value chain. This session will provide: Key risks and opportunities for utility-scale solar developers in Europe Best practices for EPC and O&M of PV plants Asset management strategies for profitable long-term operations Panel discussion on how to successfully develop and operate utility-scale PV in Europe.

Further Talks of this session:

Welcome & Introduction

Speaker

Dr. Benedikt Ortmann
Global Director Origination & Business Development Projects
BayWa r.e. AG
Germany

To Talk

Trends in Development, Building & Operating PV Power Plants

Speaker

Stefan Müller
COO
Enerparc AG
Germany

To Talk

Key Considerations in Choosing EPC Contractors for PV

Speaker

Alexandra Fioux
Senior Construction Contracts Manager
Engie
Spain

To Talk

Contractual Quality Assurance Smoothing the Path for Finance

Speaker

Daniel Barandalla
Solar Advisory Lead EMEALA
UL LLC
U.S.

To Talk

How to Ensure Transparency in Procurement Process Along the Supply Chain

Speaker

Rachel Owens
CEO
Solar Stewardship Initiative
Belgium

To Talk