In its current Global Market Outlook study, SolarPower Europe has released some optimistic prognoses for the industry. According to the analysts at this international association, new photovoltaic systems produced 102.4 gigawatts worldwide in 2018, an “important milestone” for the solar-power industry. Furthermore, experts expect newly installed facilities to achieve 800 GW in the period from 2019 to 2023. The total capacity of all photovoltaic facilities worldwide would thus reach 1.3 terawatts. And the number of countries with gigawatt-level growth would likewise increase: In 2018, 11 countries installed at least 1 new gigawatt each; in 2019, SolarPower estimates that 16 countries will exceed this benchmark.

The association also expects positive development in Europe. There, the additions measured 11.3 gigawatts (21%) in 2018; for 2019, a moderate development is expected, with an increase of 20.4 gigawatts (80%). In terms of Germany specifically, experts believe that the country will gain around 26.7 GW by 2023. Expectations are higher for China (273 GW), India (88.8 GW), the United States (70.3 GW) and Australia (32.7 GW).