Solar power underestimated: The majority of the population does not see potential

The challenges of photovoltaic production in Germany

In recent years, the importance of solar energy has increased in Germany, which is underpinned by recent surveys and statistics. Despite the broad degree of support for renewable energy technology, many citizens see the true potential of solar technology on residential buildings as much lower than it actually is. A YouGov survey, carried out on behalf of the Federal Association of Solar Economics (BSW-Solar), shows that over 90 percent of the participants significantly underestimate the possible income of photovoltaic systems.

strong decline in demand in the home segment

Interestingly, many installation companies have observed a negative trend reversal in the demand for solar systems for private households in recent months. While the installed solar power performance has increased tenfold over the past five years, a decline of around five percent in the commissioning of PV roof systems in the home segment was recorded in the first half of 2024. One reason could be that many tenants and homeowners feel confused by the earnings figures about the benefits of this technology in their own home and thus remain undecided.

underestimated renewable energy source

The results of the survey are alarming: Only seven percent of those surveyed were able to correctly assess how much solar stream an average single -family house produces annually. This misjudgment regarding solar technology could reduce the willingness to invest for energy independence and climate protection. Carsten Körnig, managing director of the BSW solar, commented on the survey results and called for the population to be informed about the actual possibilities.

support from the population

On the other hand, 77 percent of the citizens support: inside the further expansion of solar energy. This shows that despite the predominant misjudgment, there is great willingness to accept and an interest in sustainable energy solutions. In addition, surveys have shown that more than half of real estate owners and companies that have suitable roof areas are interested in the installation of solar systems.

regional differences in photovoltaic use

Another remarkable aspect is inequality when using photovoltaic systems in various regions of Germany. In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, 37 percent of the electricity requirement is now covered by solar energy, while in urban areas such as Berlin and Hamburg this proportion is below one percent. This indicates great potential for additional installations in urban areas.

an outlook on the future of solar energy

Overall, the installed photovoltaic performance in Germany is around 90.4 gigawatts, which contributes significantly to national energy supply. The German market is expected to grow to 215 gigawatts by 2030, whereby solar energy is supposed to achieve a share of around 25 percent in the power consumption. In order to achieve this goal, however, an accelerated expansion of solar technology is necessary.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that the clarification of the population with regard to the possibilities and services of solar systems is essential in order to increase the willingness to invest and use the full potential of solar energy.

For more information and backgrounds on photovoltaics in Germany, the BSW solar offers numerous resources and data.