Solar Industry 2024/2025: Solid Progress and Confidence

Solar Industry 2024/2025: Solid Progress and Confidence

Joachim Goldbeck, President of the BSW – Bundesverband Solarwirtschaft e.V. and CEO of GOLDBECK SOLAR Gruppe , takes stock of the past year and looks ahead to the future.

The solar industry is undergoing a phase of dynamic change: between accelerated growth and regulatory challenges. In reviewing 2024, the industry can draw a positive overall conclusion and approach 2025 with both confidence and caution. "We are well-positioned, but we must continue to push forward because the market is not self-sustaining!" emphasizes Joachim Goldbeck .

High Dynamics Despite Challenges

In the realm of large solar parks, Joachim Goldbeck reflects positively on the developments over the past two years. "Despite increasingly frequent periods of negative electricity pricing throughout 2024, investor interest remains robust. The market continues to demonstrate dynamism and innovation. In response to growing downtimes, attention is shifting toward alternative marketing models," Goldbeck notes. "Power purchase agreements (PPAs) and the expanded use of batteries are pivotal in this evolution. Conversely, on-site electricity consumption models are less prevalent for larger open-field systems."

Opportunities Through Solar Package II and Repowering

The solar industry has high hopes for the announced Solar Package II. "It could provide a decisive impetus for the expansion of plants up to 50 MWp, particularly in the agri-PV sector," says Goldbeck. Repowering also presents new opportunities: "The updated regulations for more flexible repairs enhance both efficiency and sustainability, especially for older systems with lower performance, such as those utilizing outdated thin-film technologies. This enables the optimal exploitation of existing areas’ potential."

Macroeconomic Hurdles and Global Influences

The industry continues to face challenges posed by high interest rates, low electricity prices, and global uncertainties. "Companies with lean structures and innovative approaches will be the ones to succeed," predicts Goldbeck. Nevertheless, solar energy remains a cornerstone of the energy transition. "Solar is a driving force, and we must now prepare ourselves for the markets of the future."

Solar as a Key to Germany's Industrial Future

Despite political turbulence, Joachim Goldbeck sees solar energy as firmly anchored at the heart of a clean, cost-effective, and resilient energy supply. "In five years, we will see clear evidence that we are making a decisive contribution to the future viability of German industry," he asserts. An analysis by The Economist from November 2024 supports this optimism, noting that the costs of the energy transition are lower than previously anticipated.

"Solar energy is not only an investment in the environment but also in Germany's industrial strength. We are resolutely moving forward to continue driving this dynamic," concludes Goldbeck.