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solar UK


The United Kingdom has introduced a feed-in tariff (FiT) spurring dramatic growth in opportunity for the solar and photovoltaic industry. Solar and PV technologies are not new to the UK and there has been significant activity, but most of the production is currently exported. The UK already has companies working in materials, solar panels and a strong research history but the expected increase in business will outstrip capacity providing opportunities along the value chain.


As the world turns to solar electricity, there is already a global shortage of capacity and this creates an opportunity for the UK to invest and prosper in an activity that fits the UK profile well, high technology with strong local use and a global market. There is opportunity to develop an industry with a longer term vision than the lifetime of the FiT. Major business opportunities exist in the whole supply chain, from materials to panel assembly and installation.


With domestic and industrial size opportunities there is the capacity to develop solar and PV based industries beyond the technology. Solar energy production requires space and there is an enormous amount of real estate on roofs and idle properties that can prosper from the introduction of solar energy producing productions. The maintenance and service of such ventures will provide another layer of industry.


Predictions vary as to how large the UK will industry will grow but the only limitation is whether supply can meet demand. Analysts are suggesting between 100 – 300 MW by 2012 with 1 GW potential by 2016. The major challenge is to provide an adequate level of manufacturing so as not to rely on exports and to ensure there are enough trained individuals to provide the necessary skills along the value chain from engineers to installers. Building this sort of capacity would provide potential growth in export markets to a global market.


THE ANGES


NG e UK FiT work


It is in the interest of the industry to present a positive cohesive message to potential consumers and provide understanding of the different technologies and appropriate usage. Introducing energy solutions that are more expensive than current sources is a difficult process and the industry must look to viability for a long term future. There is a need to balance the technological needs with the business needs and education is required throughout the industry. The mixed messages that are presented to the general community need to be countered with a strong voice to ensure understanding of an industry seeking to create a longer term stimulus than subsidies can provide.


Join us in an educational day of debate and discussion. www.solar-uk-conference.co.uk


A selection of companies presenting include: CREST (part of Loughborough University), Polysolar Ltd, ACT on Solar, Solarsense, Whitfield Solar Intrinsiq Materials Ltd, Clean Power Solutions, UK Trade & Investment, IPSOL Energy Ltd, Solarbuzz, SEMI Europe PV Automation Standards, Clean Earth Capital, Yingli Green Energy, Day4 Energy, Power One Energy Solutions, The Micropower Council.


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