SAN FRANCISCO, March 15 /PRNewswire/ -- World solar photovoltaic (PV)
market installations reached a record high of 1,460 Megawatts (MW) in 2005,
representing annual growth of 34%, says the annual PV market report issued
today by Solarbuzz LLC, a San Francisco based solar energy consultancy.
Germany's PV market grew 53% to 837 Megawatts in 2005, corresponding to
57% of the world market. This level is eight times the size of the United
States market. Japan's 14% growth took it to 292 MW.
Solar cell production reached a consolidated figure of 1,656 MW in 2005,
up from 1,146 MW. Japanese producers maintained their leadership with 46%
share, while Europe accounted for 28%. US cell production was 156 MW in 2005.
"Cumulative installed solar PV electricity generating capacity expanded by
39% in 2005 and now exceeds 5 Gigawatts worldwide and investment in new plant
to manufacture solar cells exceeded $1 billion in 2005," said Craig Stevens,
President of Solarbuzz LLC. "Meanwhile, the PV industry raised more than
$1.8 billion on capital markets over the past 12 months."
Despite a rise of 12% in silicon feedstock capacity, tight supply caused
long-term polysilicon contract prices to increase by up to 25%. The on-going
capacity shortfall will restrict world PV market growth to just 10% in 2006.
Solarbuzz market demand forecast scenarios show worldwide industry
revenues will reach $18.6 to $23.1 billion with annual PV installations
between 3.2 and 3.9 Gigawatts in 2010.
Stevens concluded, "As the rate of increase in German demand is set to
moderate, Southern Europe has become the new target for rapid market
development."
The Marketbuzz 2006 report also projects resolution of current silicon
supply shortfalls within the five-year forecast period.
The 200-page report (previewed at
http://www.solarbuzz.com/Marketbuzz2006-intro.htm) includes a full, authoritative
analysis of the supply/demand balance through the PV industry business chain,
an annual survey of solar energy installers, and a detailed review of price
movements in the major world markets.
About Solarbuzz LLC:
Solarbuzz Inc is an international solar energy consultancy, headquartered
in San Francisco, California.
Further details about Solarbuzz LLC can be found at: http://www.solarbuzz.com
or by calling:
+1-415-928-9743 (United States)
+44-1483-764203 (United Kingdom) or
+61-299-499-023 (Australia)
SOURCE Solarbuzz LLC
 back to top
Related links:
http://www.solarbuzz.com
CONTACT:
Craig Stevens of Solarbuzz LLC,
+1-415-928-9743, or crs@solarbuzz.com
|
