Andorra Solar Report

Discover comprehensive insights into the statistics, market trends, and growth potential surrounding the solar panel manufacturing industry in Andorra

  1. Climate top. (2024). Les Esclades climate and temperature. Retrieved from https://www.climate.top/andorra/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  2. Solar Gis. (2024). Solar resource maps & GIS data. Retrieved from https://solargis.com/resources/free-maps-and-gis-data?locality=andorra. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  3. Andorrainsiders. (2023). Electricity in Andorra: electricity price and cost. Retrieved from https://andorrainsiders.com/en/electricity-andorra-price-light/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  4. Hitachi Energy. (2023). Powering Andorra’s sustainable energy future. Retrieved from https://www.hitachienergy.com/me/en/news-and-events/customer-success-stories/powering-andorra-s-sustainable-energy-future#la-gonarda-substation. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  5. International Renewable Energy Agency. (2024). Renewable energy statistics 2024. Retrieved from https://www.irena.org/-/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication/2024/Jul/IRENA_Renewable_Energy_Statistics_2024.pdf. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  6. World Economic Forum. (2023). Mobilizing investment for clean energy in emerging economies – coal to solar, wind and storage, Andorra Thermal Power Station. Retrieved from https://initiatives.weforum.org/micee/case-study-details/aJY68000000CaSZGA0. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  7. Cargopedia. (2023). European fuel prices. Retrieved from https://www.cargopedia.net/europe-fuel-prices. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  8. Andorra Business. (2023). The price of electricity in Andorra is one of the lowest in Europe. Retrieved from https://www.andorrabusiness.com/en/actualitat/price-electricity-andorra-one-lowest-europe/ Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  9. El Periodic. (2022). Periodicnews. Retrieved from https://www.elperiodic.ad/documents/revistes/periodicnews_29_04_23.pdf. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  10. Ground News. (2023). Andorra, twenty minutes without electricity due to a cut of the high voltage line with the Spanish state. Retrieved from https://ground.news/article/andorra-twenty-minutes-without-electricity-due-to-a-cut-of-the-high-voltage-line-with-the-spanish-state. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  11. Chronicle Online. (2023). Power outages impact half of county. Retrieved from https://www.chronicleonline.com/news/hurricane_guide/power-outages-impact-half-of-county/article_184bd895-6189-596e-9d1c-f3b77f058c32.html. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  12. Andorra Business. (2023). Solar resources of rooftop solar panels in Andorra. Retrieved from https://www.andorrabusiness.com/en/innovar-amb-tu/projectes-dinnovacio/solar-resources-rooftop-solar-panels/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  13. Endesa. (2023). Endesa presents its future plan for Andorra. Retrieved from https://www.endesa.com/en/press/press-room/news/energy-transition/endesa-presents-plan-futuro-andorra-will-create-500-permanent-jobs-within-5-years. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  14. Andorra Research + Innovation. (2022). Solar potential. Retrieved from https://ari.ad/en/projects/solar-potential. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  15. Zerozen. (2023). Living off the grid in Andorra – What you need to know!. Retrieved from https://www.zerozen.co.uk/living-off-the-grid-in-andorra-what-you-need-to-know/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  16. 6Wresearch. (2023). Andorra solar panel market (2024-2030) | Trends, outlook & forecast. Retrieved from https://www.6wresearch.com/industry-report/andorra-solar-panel-market. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  17. World Salaries. (2024). Average solar photovoltaic installer salary in Andorra for 2024. Retrieved from https://worldsalaries.com/average-solar-photovoltaic-installer-salary-in-andorra/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  18. Worldometer. (2024). Population of Andorra. Retrieved fromhttps://www.worldometers.info/world-population/andorra-population/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  19. Idealista. (2023). Industrial buildings / warehouses for rent, Els Serradells, Andorra la Vella, Spain. Retrieved from https://www.idealista.com/en/geo/alquiler-locales/els-serradells/con-naves/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  20. Pisos. (2024). Commercial and office spaces for rent in Andorra. Retrieved from https://www.pisos.com/en/alquiler/locales-andorra/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  21. Government of Andorra. (2016). First biennial update report (BUR1) from Andorra. Retrieved from https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/fsv_andorra_presentation.pdf. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  22. La Moncloa. (2023). Spain and Andorra agree to start work on the new international electricity interconnection. Retrieved from https://www.lamoncloa.gob.es/lang/en/gobierno/news/Paginas/2023/20230224_int-elect-interconnection.aspx. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  23. MacroTrends. (2023). Andorra electricity access 1990-2024. Retrieved from https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/AND/andorra/electricity-access-statistics#google_vignette. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  24. Observatory of Economic Complexity. (2024). Andorra (AND) exports, imports, and trade partners. Retrieved from https://oec.world/en/profile/country/and. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  25. Decomant Group. (2023). What to consider when doing a renovation in Andorra?. Retrieved from https://decomantgroup.com/en/que-has-de-tener-en-cuenta-para-hacer-una-reforma-en-andorra/ Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  26. Endesa. (2023). Endesa’s future for Andorra will be renewable, industrial and social. Retrieved from https://www.endesa.com/en/press/press-room/news/energy-transition/future-endesa-andorra-will-be-renewable-industrial-social-more-6300-jobs-projects. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  27. Andorra Business. (2023). Andorra increases subsidies to make buildings more energy efficient. Retrieved from https://www.andorrabusiness.com/en/actualitat/andorra-increases-subsidies-to-make-buildings-more-energy-efficient/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  28. All Pyrenees. (2022). The budget distribution of the Renova program in order to expand the production and use of photovoltaic installations is modified. Retrieved from https://all-andorra.com/the-budget-distribution-of-the-renova-program-in-order-to-expand-the-production-and-use-of-photovoltaic-installations-is-modified/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.
  29. PVknowhow. (2023). Construction begins on 69 MW Mudéjar photovoltaic plant. Retrieved from https://www.pvknowhow.com/construction-begins-on-69-mw-photovoltaic-plant/. Accessed on 15th October 2024.

Key points

  • All figures have been converted into USD

Yearly sunshine (sun hours per year)

Around 2605.96 hours of sunshine are counted in Andorra.1

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Figure 01 Average daily Sunshine Hours in Les Escaldes, Andorra

kWh per kWp installed

The total average energy production per kilowatt of installed solar panels over the course of a year is approximately 1,753 kWh/kWp/yr.2

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Average cost per kWh from utility company

The electricity prices in Andorra for 2023 are divided into different categories based on consumption. Here’s a summary of the prices for both residential (individuals) and commercial (companies) consumers:3

Residential Electricity Prices:

Flat Rate Costs:

  • For 0-100 kWh: $13.50 cents/kWh
  • For 100-600 kWh: $13.50 cents/kWh
  • For 600-1000 kWh: $19.45 cents/kWh
  • For consumption above 1000 kWh: $21.96 cents/kWh

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Reliability of electrical power supply grid

The power supply grid in Andorra, particularly in the Valls del Nord region, has been significantly enhanced by the installation of the La Gonarda substation, which features the EconiQâ„¢ Power Transformer by Hitachi Energy. This ensures a robust and reliable electricity supply, with the capacity to distribute energy from 110 kV to 20 kV efficiently.4

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Detailed Information

  • All figures have been converted into USD
  • Total solar panel production capacity (installed)

    As of 2023, Andorra’s total solar power installed capacity is 04 MW.5

    Total solar panel production capacity (projected)

    A total of 105 MW of solar installations will be installed across Andorra till 2026.6

    Average costs of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    Overall, while Andorra does not produce the majority of its electricity, its small size and strategic agreements with neighboring countries help maintain a reliable and affordable electricity supply. Hence, exact costs are not given but following is the related information is given;78

    • Andorra imports most of its electricity from France and Spain.
    • The price of gasoline in Andorra is approximately $1.41 per liter.
    • Andorra has one of the lowest electricity prices in Europe.

    Percentages of various electricity generation sources (coal, natural gas, solar, etc)

    9

    Average daily availability of electricity from the national grid (measured in hours)

    Exact number of hours are not available but;1011

    • The average availability of electricity in Andorra is generally reliable, with the country importing about 80% of its electricity from France and Spain, while the remaining 20% is produced locally, mostly through the Engolasters hydroelectric plant. Despite being dependent on external energy sources, Andorra benefits from stable supply agreements that ensure minimal price fluctuations and consistent service.
    • Recent power outages, like the one that occurred last month, lasted only about 20 minutes, indicating that interruptions are rare and brief. Andorra’s utility company, FEDA, works to maintain low electricity prices and a stable supply, leveraging hydroelectric production during peak hours to reduce reliance on imported energy at high costs.

    Number of residential solar panel installations

    Current installation 1214

    Not available but following information is given;

    • By the end of the first half of 2021, Andorra have 107 photovoltaic installations integrated into buildings.
    • The application Solar Resources of Rooftop Solar Panels (OBSA), developed by the Observatori de la Sostenibilitat d’Andorra (OBSA), is designed to assess the solar potential of rooftops in Andorra.
    • It provides indicators on the benefits and feasibility of using solar energy on buildings, allowing homeowners and businesses to evaluate the potential for solar panel installations. 

    Projected installations 13

    Total projected number is not available but;

    • The future target for solar homes in Andorra is part of a broader renewable energy and social-economic development plan led by Endesa, through its subsidiary Enel Green Power España.
    • This plan includes the development of 10 energy communities, including Andorra and surrounding towns, where self-consumption solar plants will be installed on 40 public sites. These plants, are expected to provide electricity to 3,800 beneficiaries, promoting autonomy and energy efficiency.

    Total number of solar farms (installed and projected)

    Installed Solar Farms 14

    By the end of the first half of 2021, there were 107 photovoltaic installations with a combined capacity of 2,638 kWp​

     Projected Solar Farms 13

    Exact projected number is not available but;

    • Endesa is establishing energy communities in 9 municipalities, focusing on self-consumption solar plants to increase energy efficiency and independence.
    • Over 3,000 residents are expected to benefit from these installations.

    Off-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    15

    Current Off-Grid Market Demand in Andorra:

    • Andorra’s current off-grid solar market demand is primarily influenced by the growing interest in sustainable living among its residents.
    • With a stunning natural landscape and a focus on eco-friendly practices, many individuals are looking to adopt off-grid solutions such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
    • The trend towards self-sufficiency has gained traction, especially among those who wish to reduce their environmental footprint and achieve energy independence.
    • The government’s supportive policies, including incentives for renewable energy installations, have further bolstered demand.
    • Local communities are increasingly exploring options like rainwater harvesting and composting to complement their solar energy systems, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainable living.
    • Additionally, Andorra’s low pollution levels and pristine environment make it an attractive destination for those seeking an off-grid lifestyle, further driving the market demand for renewable energy solutions.

    Future Off-Grid Market Demand in Andorra:

    • The future off-grid market demand in Andorra is anticipated to grow significantly as the government and local communities continue to emphasize sustainability and self-sufficiency.
    • As more residents express interest in off-grid living, the adoption of renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and energy storage systems is expected to rise.
    • Ongoing feasibility studies for innovative energy solutions, including microgrids and community solar projects, will likely enhance accessibility to off-grid systems for a broader population.

    On-grid market demand for solar panels (current and projected)

    16

    Current Situation (2023):

    • Market Condition: The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) of Andorra’s solar panel market was 4401 in 2023. This indicates a concentrated market with moderate competition.
    • Growth Drivers: The solar panel market in Andorra is expected to evolve with increasing demand, driven by the need for renewable energy solutions.
    • Key Segments: The Andorra solar panel market is segmented into types such as crystal silicon, monocrystalline silicon, polycrystalline silicon, thin film, and others. These products are further segmented by their end-users, encompassing commercial, residential, and industrial sectors. Residential users make up a significant portion of the market due to rising interest in off-grid solutions and energy independence.

    Future Outlook (2030):

    • Market Growth: The forecast extends to 2030, with projections for revenue and volume growth across various segments, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film
    • Export Opportunities: Spain is identified as a high-potential market for Andorra’s solar panel exports by 2028, followed by France, Netherlands, Germany, and Hungary. Despite USA having the highest import demand, Spain remains the most attractive market for Andorra based on unmet demand potential.
    • Market Life Cycle: The industry is likely moving through its life cycle, with continuous advancements in solar technology and market competition.

    Average monthly income of workers in solar industry (labor cost)

    A Solar Photovoltaic Installer working in Andorra typically earns around $32,300 per year, with salaries ranging from a low average of about $15,600 to a high average of $49,400, depending on experience and qualifications.17

    Population of the country

    The current population of Andorra is 82,225.18

    Average overhead costs of solar panel production (with a brief breakdown)

    Estimate for Factory Rent

    Monthly Average Warehouse Rental Cost 19

    Following are the rents in Carretera de la Comella i de la Plana, Centro, Andorra la Vella of different warehouse sizes:

    Size: 626 m² ( $8.45/m²)

    • Rent: (~$5,291/month)

    Size: 744 m² ( $8.52/m²)

    • Rent: (~$6,349/month)

    Size: 900 m² ($8.82/m²)

    • Rent: (~$7,936/month)

    Key Components of Administrative Costs

    Salaries and Wages: 17

    A Solar Photovoltaic Installer working in Andorra typically earns around $32,300 per year, with salaries ranging from a low average of about $15,600 to a high average of $49,400, depending on experience and qualifications.

    Commercial Electricity Prices 3

    Businesses in Andorra are offered different tariffs (blue, red, and green) based on their power consumption:

    • Blue Tariff: $18.62 cents/kWh
    • Red Tariff: $22.23 cents/kWh
    • Green Tariff: $22.23 cents/kWh

    Monthly Rents for Office Space 20

    Average Rent Range: $295 to $8,135/month, depending on the location and size of the office space.

    A summary of the energy infrastructure

    Electricity Generation 21

    • Andorra’s electricity generation primarily relies on hydropower, photovoltaics, cogeneration, and the Waste Treatment Center.
    • The country imports most of its electricity from France and Spain.

     Transmission & Distribution 22

    • Andorra is connected to the electricity grids of both France and Spain. The country’s electricity transmission network is linked to these neighbouring countries, allowing for the import and export of electricity as needed.
    • The primary entity responsible for electricity transmission in Andorra is FEDA (Forces Elèctriques d’Andorra). FEDA manages the electricity supply, distribution, and the operation of the transmission network within the country.

     Energy Access 23

    • As of 2022, the World Bank reported that 100% of the population in Andorra had access to electricity.

    Energy Exports 24

    • Andorra’s top exports include Paintings ($211M), Integrated Circuits ($45.7M), Cars ($26.9M), and Orthopedic products.

    Some of the government regulations surrounding solar panel production

    In Andorra, solar energy is increasingly promoted as a means to enhance sustainability and reduce dependence on traditional energy sources. However, the installation of solar panels is governed by a set of regulations to ensure that projects meet environmental standards and contribute to energy efficiency. Below are the key regulations and considerations for solar installations in the country:25

    Permit Requirements

    Before installing solar panels, homeowners and businesses must acquire the necessary permits from local authorities. This process ensures that the installation complies with municipal laws and building codes. The permits typically cover aspects such as:

    • Structural safety of the building
    • Compatibility with the building’s energy system
    • Visual impact on the surroundings

    Energy Certification

    Any building undergoing renovations, including the installation of solar panels, must meet Andorra’s energy certification regulations. These regulations ensure that the building achieves a certain level of energy efficiency, which not only reduces operational costs but also adds long-term value to the property. Solar installations are seen as a key component in enhancing a building’s energy rating.

    Government initiatives in solar panel production (includes investments and subsidies)

    The government of Andorra, in collaboration with private entities like Endesa, has initiated several programs and subsidies to support solar panel production and renewable energy in the region. Key initiatives include:2627

    Investment in Renewable Energy Projects

    The Ministry of Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge awarded a tender for large-scale solar, wind, and hybrid projects in Andorra. Endesa, through its renewable subsidiary Enel Green Power España, is investing over €1,500 million in renewable energy projects in Andorra, including solar panel production and installation.

    Solar Tracker Factory

    An agreement with Soltec will lead to the construction of a solar tracker factory in Andorra, reusing facilities from the former coal power plant. This initiative aims to support solar panel production and create 40 permanent jobs.

    Energy Communities for Self-Consumption

    Endesa is establishing energy communities in 9 municipalities, focusing on self-consumption solar plants to increase energy efficiency and independence. Over 3,000 residents are expected to benefit from these installations.

    Government Support for Self-Consumption and Energy Independence

    Andorra provides a range of incentives and subsidies to promote the adoption of renewable energy, including solar power.

    Renova Programme

    The Renova programme encourages energy efficiency in buildings and the use of renewable energy, such as solar power:

    • Direct Subsidies: A budget of approximately $1.6 million USD is allocated for energy efficiency projects, with an additional $160,000 USD specifically for the installation of photovoltaic solar panels.
    • Guaranteed Loans: Around $14.8 million USD is available to guarantee loans under the programme to assist in financing energy-efficient improvements.

    Renova+ Programme

    This sub-program promotes energy efficiency in buildings to achieve A or B energy certifications:

    • A Certification: The subsidy ceiling is raised to $133,000 USD, with a subsidy rate of 30%.
    • B Certification: The ceiling is set at $106,000 USD, with a subsidy rate of 25%.

    Photovoltaic Solar Installations (Renova fv)

    The Renova fv programme offers direct support for installing photovoltaic solar panels:

    • Subsidy Rate: Covers 40% of the installation costs, with a maximum subsidy of up to $21,300 USD.
    • Self-Consumption Law: Andorra encourages self-consumption of photovoltaic energy rather than selling it to the grid, making solar energy more accessible for personal use.

    Notable solar projects in the country (installed and projected)

    Current Projects

    Renova Programme Photovoltaic Installations 28

    • Location: Various residential and commercial buildings across Andorra.
    • Capacity: Individual installations range from 2 kW to 20 kW, depending on the building size

     Mudéjar Photovoltaic Plant 29

    • Capacity: 69.2 MWp
    • Location: On the site of the former coal park of the Andorra thermal power plant, using the land of the closed “Mas de Perlé” landfill.
    • Details:
      • Covers 111.4 hectares.
      • Includes 126,504 photovoltaic modules (crystalline technology with a fixed structure).
      • Will generate over 128 GWh of electricity per year (sufficient for about 32,000 households).
      • Will prevent the emission of approximately 52,196 tons of COâ‚‚ annually.
      • Expected completion: End of 2024.
      • Investment: 48.5 million euros.

    Sedéis V Solar Park

    • Capacity: 49.71 MWp
    • Location: Undisclosed location in Andorra.
    • Details:
      • The first solar farm by Endesa in Andorra.
      • Began operations in December 2023.

     SolAndorra I (Future Project):

    • Capacity: 25 MW
    • Location: La Massana district, covering around 40 hectares.
    • Details:
      • Will utilize advanced photovoltaic technology.
      • Aimed at reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

    SolAndorra II (Future Project):

    • Capacity: 15 MW
    • Location: Escaldes-Engordany, spanning approximately 20 hectares.
    • Details:
      • Will harness the high-altitude sunlight, maximizing energy capture.
      • Designed to provide power to local businesses and residential areas.

    Pyrenees Solar Park (Future Project):

    • Capacity: 10 MW
    • Location: Eastern part of Andorra.
    • Details:
      • Will use advanced solar panel tracking systems to follow the sun’s trajectory, enhancing efficiency.

    Some of the notable solar companies (plus brief details on what they do)

    Company Name: SUD Renovables (Powered by Soltech)

    Website: https://sudrenovables.com/sud-andorra/

    Location: Prat Primer, 4. 2-2, Andorra La Vella, Andorra

    Products and Services:

    • Solar Panels for Homes: Installation of solar panels designed for residential use.
    • Solar Panels for Companies: Solutions for commercial solar panel installations.
    • Solar Parks: Development of larger solar energy projects on land.
    • Self-consumption Installations: Panels for houses, including those with slate roofs, ensuring aesthetic compatibility and efficient sunlight capture even in winter conditions.

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