Invitation by ESTIF President Gerhard Rabensteiner

Dear Madam / Sir,

We have come a long way: today our industry is in a better position than ever before. In some countries solar thermal has already become a standard option for heating domestic water, and the use of solar energy for space heating is increasing continuously. Exciting applications, such as solar assisted cooling or industrial process heat are progressing towards wide market availability.

But the members of ESTIF aim for more: no house in Europe should be built without a solar thermal system. To achieve this, we need stronger policies to support our technology until we have reached the critical mass for a strong and self-sustained growth of the market. The advantages of a sustainable supply of heat and cold will benefit the whole society.

ESTIF is the voice of Solar Thermal in Europe, developing strategies to drive the EU towards achieving its target of 100 million m2 of solar thermal collectors. ESTIF is recognised by policy makers and media as the representation of our industry and has liaison status with the European Committee for Standardisation for the purpose of solar thermal standards.

In order to better promote solar thermal, ESTIF has joined forces with the European Renewable Energy Council (EREC), in requesting a European Directive to promote Renewable Heating and Cooling. This Directive would set the positive and stable framework conditions which will propel our market to new dimensions.

If your company or organisation is not yet a member of ESTIF, I invite you to join ESTIF today. Together we will make our vision come true: A solar thermal system for every building in Europe.

Gerhard Rabensteiner

ESTIF President