Swiss Solar Slowdown After Record Growth
The Swiss solar industry, after experiencing rapid growth, is facing a slowdown due to supply chain disruptions and a shortage of skilled workers. This has led to significant delays in installation projects, raising concerns about meeting Switzerland’s ambitious solar energy targets for 2040, which aim for an annual production of 24 TWh. You can read more about these targets on PVKnowhow [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/swiss-solar-energy-targets-2040s-incredible-24-twh-goal-3/].
Growth Streak Falters Amid Swiss Solar Slowdown
In 2022, Switzerland installed nearly 1 gigawatt (GW) of new solar power capacity, setting a record for the second consecutive year. This achievement highlighted the country’s commitment to renewable energy. However, the momentum stalled in the first half of 2023, with only 285 megawatts (MW) added compared to 390 MW during the same period in 2022, according to the Swiss Solar Association (Swissolar).
Industry experts, such as Andreas Stöckli of the solar panel firm Meyer Burger, believe the slowdown is temporary. They attribute it to recent global supply chain disruptions and a domestic shortage of skilled workers. Despite the current setback, Swissolar notes that the photovoltaic industry is still expanding, now comprising 1,200 businesses and employing 10,000 people.
Challenges and Setbacks Mount During Swiss Solar Slowdown
While the solar industry has experienced rapid growth, it now faces significant challenges. Supply chain issues and the increasing need for skilled workers are key obstacles. Swissolar reports project delays of up to a year. The demand for photovoltaic training is exceptionally high, with courses booked months in advance.
Traditionally, solar installations in Switzerland accelerate during the second half of the year. However, experts caution that this seasonal trend might not materialize in 2023. The capacity of companies to handle new projects is limited, and the lead time between contract signing and installation has increased significantly. These delays pose a threat to Switzerland’s energy independence goals, as outlined in this PVKnowhow article: [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/switzerland-solar-initiative-3-essential-steps-for-energy-independence/].
Addressing the Swiss Solar Slowdown: Solutions Needed
To address these challenges, Swissolar and other industry stakeholders have proposed several policy adjustments. They recommend that the government revise the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) to accurately reflect the increased costs of solar installations. Simplifying the complex and time-consuming application procedures for domestic solar installations is also crucial.
Furthermore, Stöckli emphasizes the importance of a more resilient and localized supply chain. The European solar industry has historically relied heavily on imports, a vulnerability highlighted by recent disruptions. The EU has implemented policies to stimulate domestic solar energy production, and Stöckli urges Switzerland to adopt similar measures.
Despite the current slowdown, experts remain optimistic about the long-term prospects of the Swiss solar industry. With appropriate policy adjustments and continued growth in the sector, solar energy is expected to play a vital role in Switzerland’s energy future, contributing significantly to the nation’s renewable energy transition. This optimism aligns with the ambitious 24 TWh goal outlined in this PVKnowhow article [https://www.pvknowhow.com/news/swiss-solar-energy-aims-for-24-twh-annual-generation-by-2040/].
