The European Solar Charter

Photovoltaic solar power is surging in the EU, with a notable expansion of 56 GW last year, predominantly from rooftop installations that boost consumer resilience against high electricity costs and save space. These installations have significantly cut gas imports, contributing to energy security. The European Commission (EC) aims to accelerate the deployment and deliver almost 600 GW of solar photovoltaic by 2030 according to the implemented EU solar energy strategy contemplated within the REPowerEU plan. Employment in the sector is robust, offering around 650,000 jobs mainly in installation, which is expected to rise to approximately 1 million by 2030, as declared by the EC. To meet the EU's ambitious renewable energy goals for 2030, solar energy deployment will need to accelerate even more.

The European Solar Charter, signed on the 15th of April 2024, is a commitment by EU governments and the solar sector to bolster solar manufacturing in Europe. It builds on the EU Solar Strategy of 2022, recognizing solar photovoltaics as a main stream energy technology essential for addressing climate and energy crises. The Charter seeks to accelerate solar deployment and supports innovative solar technologies, acknowledging the importance of a flexible energy grid. It calls for maintaining and expanding production capacity to meet rising demand and includes various stakeholders' endorsements.

The European Commission plans to:

• Simplify access to EU funds for solar PV manufacturing projects through various financial instruments and initiatives, with significant funds allocated for clean tech manufacturing, including solar PV.
• Collaborate with the European Investment Bank to boost investment in solar manufacturing across its entire value chain using mechanisms like Invest EU.
• Aid Member States in adopting clear and fair criteria in renewable energy auctions and public procurements, and encourage innovative solar energy applications.
• Consider a major joint project to advance solar PV manufacturing innovations and their initial industrial use with Member States' cooperation.
• Support the European Solar PV Industry Alliance to reach its goals and work with Member State authorities to exchange best practices.
• Work with international partners to strengthen and diversify the solar supply chain through dialogues and agreements.
• Support skill development in the EU solar sector, including manufacturing, via the Solar Academy and partnerships.
• Propose advanced regulations for solar PV products to set robust environmental and energy standards.
• Expedite solar energy deployment by assisting Member States with the Renewable Energy Directive and implementing the Grids Action Plan.
• Investigate any industry reports of unfair trade practices thoroughly.

The European Solar Charter is important for the energy industry in Austria because it promotes the widespread adoption of solar energy across the EU, aligning with Austria's own renewable energy goals. This commitment will accelerate solar energy projects, which can benefit Austrian companies specializing in solar technology, energy management and smart grid solutions, like CyberGrid. It will also catalyze local investment in solar infrastructure, stimulate job creation within the renewable sector and contribute to Austria's energy autonomy and sustainability objectives.

The signed version of The European Solar Charter can be explored on European Commission's website.