Solarbuzz Reports World Solar Photovoltaic Market Growth of 62% in 2007

[jpak]

http://www.solarbuzz.com/News/NewsNACO723.htm

World solar photovoltaic (PV) market installations reached a record high of 2,826 megawatts (MW) in 2007, representing growth of 62% over the previous year, according to the Annual PV Industry report issued today by Solarbuzz LLC.

Germany's PV market reached 1,328 MW in 2007 and now accounts for 47% of the world market. Spain soared by over 480% to 640 MW, while the United States increased by 57% to 220 MW. It became the world's fourth largest market behind Japan, once the world leader, which declined 23% to 230 MW.

World solar cell production reached a consolidated figure of 3,436 MW in 2007, up from 2,204 MW a year earlier. Japanese producers continue to lose ground, only accounting 26% of global production. Chinese manufacturers raised their share from 20% in 2006 to 35% in 2007.

Despite total polysilicon production for both solar and semiconductor use rising 30% in 2007, it remained the most capacity constrained part of the PV chain. 21 new entrants started manufacturing polysilicon during the year.

<more>