Photovoltaic solar energy: new map and interactive information

A new map published by the European Commission shows the photovoltaic solar energy potential of different parts of Europe. Photovoltaic Solar Cells convert sunlight directly into electricity. In addition the interactive on-line Photovoltaic Geographical Information System (PVGIS), developed by the Commission's in-house scientific service, DG Joint Research Centre, allows users to estimate solar energy performance at any given location in Europe.

The information in the map shows that an identical solar system will generate twice as much energy in sunny areas of Europe, such as Malta and Southern Spain, than in areas such as Scotland or Northern Scandinavia. These tools are invaluable as the EU seeks to increase the share of renewable energies in its consumption to 20% in 2020.

While it is perhaps no surprise that the solar energy potential of Southern Europe is higher than Northern Europe, the interactive information service map allows very specific calculation of the amount of energy that can be generated in any given location in Europe and its neighbouring regions. This calculation is based on knowledge of the sun's energy, geographic distribution, the different terrain across Europe and detailed technological analysis of the available photovoltaic technologies. It also shows that considerable potential exists in Europe for greater use of solar energy.

In addition to the map and the interactive service, the Photovoltaic Geographical Information System provides a wealth of information about the development of photovoltaic technology, such as figures on its share of total national electricity consumption in each Member State, up-to-date research on photovoltaics and links to world-wide databases of solar technology and data. The new Photovoltaic Geographical Information System is a powerful tool for the development of new solar power plants, such as the one inaugurated today in the Southern Spanish city of Seville. This is the first commercial concentrating solar power plant in Europe and has been co-financed with EU research funds.

Research is an important element in efforts to increase renewable energy generation. The European Commission has supported the creation of a European Photovoltaic Technology Platform, which mobilises industry, academia, regulators, financial institutions, and all others with an interest in developing European leadership in photovoltaics. The Technology Platform has designed a Strategic Research Agenda in which the main research and technological development issues for the sector over the next decade are addressed. These include the various technologies for harnessing solar energy, efficiency, storage and distribution to the grid.

Further information: Interactive services of PVGIS

The solar map can be downloaded from here.