How many solar collectors have been installed so far in EU countries?

At the end of 2003 approx. 12million m2 of solar thermal collectors had been installed in the EU. These supply 4900GWh of heat each year.

 

What potentials exist in the EU countries?

Up to 1.4billion m2 of solar thermal collectors could be realised in the EU countries (not including the new member states). These collectors would be able to provide up to 680,000GWh of heat energy.

 

Is this potential relevant to the overall energy mix?

If the full potential of EU-15 were to be realised, the amount of energy produced by solar thermal would equate to 6% of final energy consumption. Combined with energy efficiency solar thermal could supply a substantial share of the energy demand for heating and cooling.

 

 

Suggested press text

In the EU, 12million m2 of solar thermal collectors supply 4900 GWh of heat each and every year. By consistently developing this potential, this figure could rise to 680,000 GWh by the year 2040. This amount of energy equates to 6% of the EU’s current energy demand.

 

 

Description: During the last 20 years the installation of solar thermal systems in the EU has increased continuously, reaching 12 million m2 at the end of 2003.

 

Reference: See also Growth Prospects and Market Launches Compared

 

More info: "Sun in Action II", ESTIF 2003

 

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