In a joint letter, SolarPower Europe and European Aluminium highlight policy recommendations to boost solar PV rollout in Europe based on a robust and sustainable European supply of raw materials like aluminium.
The EU's ambitious targets for solar energy align perfectly with the essential role of aluminium in solar panel production. The expected increase of solar PV capacity implies higher need for aluminium, especially recycled aluminium which could meet 21% of solar PV demand by 2040.
For solar and aluminium industry to best supply each other, there are several key things that need to be done:
- Align EU solar targets with crucial aluminium needs for solar panel production.
- Support WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Directive revision for efficient solar panel recycling and a circular economy.
- Overcome shaping costs in solar PPAs (Power Purchasing Agreements) for aluminium production.
- Decarbonise the EU energy grid, support RES (Renewable Energy Standard) PPAs for energy-intensive industries, and streamline approval processes at the EU level.
- Stabilise and diversify supply chains, support innovation, and promote aluminium recycling.
Aluminium and solar: synergies and opportunities
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