The global solar power industry continues to surge, with record-breaking installations driving progress towards a climate-neutral energy future. In 2024, the world achieved the milestone of two terawatts of installed photovoltaic (PV) capacity, with the past two years accounting for more solar capacity than the previous 68 years combined.
Falling costs for photovoltaic modules have played a key role in this rapid expansion. As solar energy becomes more accessible and affordable, the sector is poised for further growth. Industry leaders and innovators are set to converge at Intersolar Europe 2025, the world’s leading solar industry exhibition, which will take place from 7–9 May 2025 at Messe München, Germany.
Europe’s Solar Power Record
According to SolarPower Europe, 2024 saw the installation of 65.5 GW of new PV capacity across Europe, setting a new record. Projections suggest that Europe’s total solar capacity will almost triple, reaching 816 GW by 2030, compared to 338 GW in 2024.
However, this growth highlights the need for smarter energy integration. Experts emphasise the importance of expanding power grids, digitalising and flexibilising infrastructure, and ramping up storage capacities. Additionally, accelerating the electrification of transport and heating systems will be crucial to supporting solar energy’s role in a sustainable energy mix.
Declining Costs Boost Solar Competitiveness
Solar power is becoming increasingly cost-competitive, with photovoltaic module prices continuing to decline. In November 2024, PV module costs ranged from 6 to 13 euro cents per watt-peak in Germany, around 9 euro cents in China, and 27 to 28 euro cents in the United States, according to OPIS, the Dow Jones price information agency.
The overall cost of solar energy production has also fallen. Research from Fraunhofer ISE in 2024 revealed that the levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) for large-scale PV plants in Germany ranged between 4 and 7 euro cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Even with battery storage, costs remained competitive at 6 to 11 euro cents per kWh. In comparison, electricity generated from conventional power plants costs between 15 and 33 euro cents per kWh, while nuclear energy costs around 49 euro cents per kWh.
Spotlight on Innovation at Intersolar Europe
Intersolar Europe 2025 will bring together manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, project developers, and start-ups to explore the latest advancements in solar energy. Key topics will include hybrid power plants, commercial PV systems, and modern applications like agricultural, floating, and building-integrated photovoltaics.
The exhibition will also showcase smart combinations of PV systems with storage solutions, electromobility, heat pumps, and energy management technologies. As Europe’s largest energy exhibition alliance, The smarter E Europe will provide a comprehensive platform for discussions on transforming the global energy landscape.
Intersolar Europe 2025 aims to reinforce the solar industry’s momentum, supporting its pivotal role in achieving a sustainable energy future.