ISE - Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems
ISE - Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems
03/25/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 03/25/2026 05:43
Photovoltaics Equipment: Global Market Entering a Phase of Unprecedented Growth
News #09
Photovoltaics Equipment: Global Market Entering a Phase of Unprecedented Growth
March 25, 2026
ISC Konstanz and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE have conducted an analysis of the market situation for PV manufacturing equipment on behalf of the VDMA. The study forecasts that the global annual capital expenditure (CAPEX) for PV manufacturing equipment is projected to rise from 16.6 billion dollars in 2025 to 43.8 billion dollars by 2035, resulting in a cumulative global market volume of USD 250-300 billion in the next ten years. The study provides a comprehensive overview of global PV manufacturing, key technological trends, and the competitiveness of European machinery and equipment manufacturers.
© Fraunhofer ISE
A silicon solar cell in M10 format manufactured at the PV-TEC of Fraunhofer ISE.
According to the study European production equipment is particularly recognized for its reliability, process stability, and long service lifetimes, but lacks a strong home market. Interviews with global factory operators confirm European technological advancements but also identify slow response times, higher upfront costs, and limited turnkey offerings as barriers.
The study emphasizes that Europe currently lacks a functioning home market for PV manufacturing equipment. Announcements for GW scale European PV factories are numerous, but tangible investment remains limited. PD Dr. Ralf Preu, Director Photovoltaics at Fraunhofer ISE, one of the world's largest solar research institutes, emphasizes: "Europe continues to develop high efficiency solar manufacturing technologies, but without large scale industrial deployment at home, competitiveness is at risk. We do have research excellence, we need real factories with industrial excellence."
Detailed information as well as the study for download in the press release of VDMA
Last modified: March 25, 2026
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