QAZAQ GREEN. The total installed capacity of Germany’s solar energy systems surpassed the historic milestone of 100 gigawatts (GW) at the end of 2024. This data was reported by the German Solar Energy Association (BSW-Solar) based on statistics from the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA).

In 2024, solar energy will cover approximately 14% of the country’s total electricity consumption (2023: 12%). Around 1 million new photovoltaic systems with a combined capacity of 17 GW are expected to be commissioned this year, representing a 10% increase compared to the previous year (15.4 GW). By 2030, the installed capacity of solar systems in the country is projected to double, reaching 215 GW.

However, according to Carsten Körnig, Executive Director of BSW-Solar, further market growth requires political effort and regulatory improvements. “The construction of solar systems and energy storage is essential to ensure affordable electricity and combat climate change. The next German government must remove market barriers and provide attractive conditions for investors,” he stated.

Key drivers of photovoltaic growth in 2024

• Ground-mounted solar parks: a 40% increase (6.3 GW) compared to 2023.
• Rooftop solar systems for enterprises: a 25% increase (3.6 GW).
• Plug-and-play solar devices (balcony power plants): doubling of capacity (+100%, 0.4 GW).

However, the residential rooftop solar systems segment experienced a slowdown. Newly installed capacity in this segment decreased by 15% in 2024, reaching 6.7 GW. Falling prices for solar modules have also posed challenges for many solar energy companies.