The German solar market and the DGS - German section of ISES

In context with the Kyoto protocol, Germany’s government has proclaimed a CO2 reduction down to 80% to 95% in 2050 compared to 1990. This challenge will only be achieved by a massive increase of energy efficiency measures and strengthened use of renewable energies, especially solar energy applications. Indeed the current situation is more depressing than hopeful. Due to intricate policy maneuvering and increasing deterioration of the conditions for PV the rate of new installations remains static below 2 GW power. In the years 2010 until 2012 this rate has been 7,5 GW! In solar thermal the installation rate has decreased below 1 Mio m2 in 2014, less compared to 2013. These rates have to be considerably increased to meet the policies CO2 reduction targets. DGS (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Sonnenenergie) as the German Section of ISES, has currently 2700 members, scientists, installers, officials. DGS is German-wide active by its sections and regional associations. In Hamburg DGS is monitoring large solar thermal systems to identify failures at an early stage. 

As a typical DGS activity, a nationwide network of DGS Solarschools has been created in which courses for planners and plumbers will be held. With regard to specific knowledge DGS has established expert committees for example, in solar thermal, PV, solar architecture or solar mobility.

This year DGS celebrates its 40th anniversary. The associations’ activities will become more important due to strategic partnerships with associations working in a similar field with similar target groups and hopefully more members by expanding the product portfolio and benefits for them.