EU Aims for 600GW Grid‑Connected PV by 2030

May 26, 2022

According to TaiyangNews, the European Commission (EC) recently unveiled its "REPowerEU Plan" with great fanfare. Under the "Fit for 55" framework, the renewable energy targets have been significantly raised – the share of renewable energy by 2030 has been increased from the original 40% to 45%.

Guided by the REPowerEU programme, the EU has set ambitious photovoltaic grid‑connection targets:

- By 2025: Over 320 gigawatts (GW)
- By 2030: A further leap to 600 gigawatts (GW)

New mandatory photovoltaic installation policy

To accelerate the achievement of these goals, the European Union has decided to enact legislation requiring:

- Starting from 2026, all new public and commercial buildings with a floor area exceeding 250 square metres must be equipped with photovoltaic systems.

- Starting from 2029, all new residential buildings must be equipped with photovoltaic systems.

- For existing public and commercial buildings: From 2027, those with an area exceeding 250 square metres will also be required to install photovoltaic systems.

These mandatory installation policies will greatly promote the integration of photovoltaic technology with buildings (BIPV). For example, the projects that Solar First Group is helping to build in Europe cover various forms, including BIPV roofs, BIPV curtain walls, BIPV carports, and smart street lamps integrated with photovoltaic systems.

These innovative application forms perfectly meet the requirements of the EU's new policies for PV installation on different types of buildings, especially public and commercial buildings. They not only comply with regulations but also make efficient use of building space resources, contributing to the ambitious 600GW installation target.