The European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition (EU PVSEC) 2023 concluded on 22 September 2023, marking another successful year of bringing together over 1850 leading experts, researchers and industry players to present and discuss the latest developments in photovoltaic research and technology. Over the course of five days, renowned researchers and industry pioneers shared their insights in over 1050 insightful presentations. The exhibition hall was bustling with activity as companies and organisations presented their latest products and services. As we reflect on this dynamic event, we are reminded of Dr Gunter Erfurt’s insightful opening speech, where he stated, “An ecosystem that has everything, from R&D to the industry, is most efficient.” This statement captures the essence of EU PVSEC, bridging the worlds of PV R&D and industry, and highlights the efficiency that results from such a strong collaboration.
Photovoltaics Paves the Way to Combat Climate Change
The key message of this week is the pivotal role of photovoltaics in mitigating climate change, urgently called for by the IPCC this year. Indeed, Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) underlined that while climate change is an undeniable reality, the PV community is already providing effective solutions. Alarmingly, the IMF reported that fossil fuel subsidies surged to a record $7 Trillion in 2022. Scaling back these subsidies would reduce air pollution, generate revenue, and make a major contribution to slowing climate change. This is particularly significant given that solar PV has been consistently cheaper than new coal- or gas-fired power plants in most countries. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar projects now offer some of the most affordable electricity rates ever recorded. The global community echoes the IMF, IEA and IPCC and calls for the elimination of wasteful subsidies for fossil fuels and increased investments in a clean energy future.
Building on a rapidly expanding production and deployment rate and 1.5 TW of global installed capacity expected by the end of 2023, the PV community discussed the pathways and challenges towards becoming a major, sustainable, and circular clean energy source in the coming decades.
Awarding of the Becquerel Prize
During the opening ceremony of the EU PVSEC 2023, Dr. Gunter Erfurt was awarded the prestigious Alexander Edmond Becquerel Prize. This recognises his remarkable achievements in revitalising the advanced manufacturing of silicon solar cells and modules in Europe through his leadership at Meyer Burger.
Session Recordings Available Worldwide
EU PVSEC offers participants the extended opportunity to access the wealth of knowledge presented at the event. The recordings of the scientific sessions and Parallel Events and the Industry Summit will be accessible for three months, allowing attendees to continue to work with the valuable content and innovative insights even after the event.
EU PVSEC 2024 in Vienna, Austria
The EU PVSEC is set to return in 2024, bringing together solar energy experts, researchers, and industry leaders in the picturesque city of Vienna, Austria from 23 – 27 September for another exceptional event. Stay tuned to find out more about the exciting programme, registration, and opportunities to be at the forefront of solar energy innovation.
Background EU PVSEC
The EU PVSEC is the world’s leading forum for PV Research and Development and the biggest Conference on PV Solar Energy. With a history of over 40 years, EU PVSEC is the longest running, renowned PV conference in the world.
The scientific programme is coordinated by the European Commission Joint Research Centre.
