2011 was a record year both for Intersolar Europe and the international solar industry, with the expansion of newly-installed photovoltaic capacity reaching a new high. With 18 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of solar power generated during the year, 2011 saw photovoltaics conquer a larger share of the German energy production market than hydropower for the first time. The increasing market share occupied by solar power highlights the opportunities that could be enjoyed by the technology in future energy supply. In order to exploit these opportunities effectively, the solar industry is working at full steam to create new solutions, such as grid integration and energy storage systems. The PV Energy World Special Exhibit at Intersolar Europe 2012 presents the latest developments in technology and reveals both the measures and the political conditions that are necessary to achieve the highest possible quotas of solar power generation.
In 2011, solar plants with a total capacity of at least 26.5 gigawatts (GW) were installed across the globe. In Germany alone, around 7.5 GW of new photovoltaic capacity was added, exceeding even the previous record year of 2010. According to estimates from BSW-Solar (German Solar Industry Association) in Berlin, solar power production will see a further 70% rise in the next four years alone. In order to take full advantage of this capacity in future, the industry needs to address grid stability, intelligent solutions for on-site consumption and efficient, economical storage as a matter of priority.
Intersolar Europe 2012 will take place from June 13–15 at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre.With over 3,500 exhibitors and 120,000+ visitors spanning three continents, Intersolar is the world’s leading exhibition series for the solar industry. Intersolar Europe takes place annually at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre. Today, it is the world’s largest exhibition for the solar industry, and looks back on a history spanning twenty years.
Fantastic > What about South Africa > If a company in the USA can finance solar applications then they will be the first step in the right direction .