REPORT : Global Market Outlook for Photovoltaics 2013-2017

The "Global Market Outlook for Photovoltaics 2013-2017" includes PV market figures for 2012 and makes forecasts for the next five years for global and European markets. The world added more than 31 GW of new solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity in 2012 – roughly the same amount as in the record-setting year of 2011. This significant market growth came even during a period of economic crisis and industry consolidation.

The results show clearly that Europe’s leading role in driving the global PV market is coming to an end. In 2011, Europe accounted for more than 70% of the world’s new PV installations; in 2012 this number was around 55%. In 2013 it is almost certain that the majority of new PV capacity in the world will be installed outside of Europe.