Brussels-based SolarPower Europe, representing the European solar sector, has published a study by Germany-based Fraunhofer ISE, analyzing the feasibility of reshoring solar manufacturing to Europe. According to Fraunhofer ISE, producing solar modules in Europe with EU-manufactured cells was 10.3 €ct/Wp (~ $0.122/Wp) costlier than in China. This difference has resulted in a 14.5% higher levelized cost of electricity, still within the 15% premium permitted under the EU Net-Zero Industry Act. Fraunhofer ISE also found that fully EU-based supply chains were 12.8 €ct/Wp (~ $0.151/Wp) costlier than Southeast Asia–based alternatives, despite delivering stronger macro-economic returns. Fraunhofer ISE modeling has shown the gap could fall below 10% if capital and operational subsidies were combined with output-based support. The analysis specified that about 2 €ct/Wp (~ $0.024/Wp) support would be required for factories exceeding 5 GW annual production capacity. Fraunhofer ISE further stated that each gigawatt of EU capacity could create up to 2,700 jobs and €12.6 to €66.4 million (~ $14.87 to $78.35 million) fiscal revenues.
Fraunhofer ISE study details EU solar manufacturing cost gap
SolarPower Europe reported Fraunhofer ISE analysis showing EU solar reshoring 14.5% costlier, with modules priced 10.3 €ct/Wp above China, unless subsidies applied.
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