How do government subsidies affect solar PV development in Europe?

The deployment of much utility-scale solar PV across Europe is driven by government auctions or subsidies 30 . To stimulate innovation, governments might increase available subsidies if developers can demonstrate certain characteristics of the manufactured panels.

Are EU solar manufacturing subsidies appropriate?

EU solar manufacturing subsidies are not appropriate based on criteria of European production alone. Subsidies could, however, be justified on innovation grounds, by supporting new solar products that have a real chance to develop into sustainable industries that contribute to climate goals.

Is there public support for solar PV Manufacturing?

The solar industry encompasses so many manufacturing processes that the concept of ‘public support for solar PV manufacturing’ is an oversimplification. The production of a solar panel begins with quartz (SiO2), commonly found in sand. This is transformed into polysilicon by an energy-intensive process of melting and purification.

Is economic resilience a justification for solar PV manufacturing subsidies?

Its main regional focus is on Africa, where the EU has already pledged a significant investment of €150 billion with the Africa-Europe Investment Package. The notion of economic resilience as a justification for solar PV manufacturing subsidies is questionable, but clearly drives current European public discourse on the issue.

Will new solar homes get a payment from suppliers?

New solar homes and businesses creating and exporting electricity to the grid will be guaranteed a payment from suppliers under new laws to be introduced by the government this week (Monday 10 June).

What is considered a stand-alone solar PV installation?

llations with a TIC of 250kW or less3.87 A solar PV installation with a TIC of 250kW or less will be classified as stand-alone if it is not wired o provide electricity to a building. If it is wired to provide electricity to a building,