Photovoltaic system installations in the first half of 2010, estimated at 3 GWp, continue to consolidate Germany’s position as the world’s largest photovoltaic (PV) market.

In 2009, Germany accounted for approximately one of every two newly installed modules worldwide, with total installations at 3.8 GWp for the year.

Amendments to the photovoltaic feed-in tariffs of Germany’s Renewable Energies Act (EEG) were passed in early July, with a further adjustment to take effect in October . The changes mark a further shift towards the rooftop segment by abandoning field installations on cropland and increasing the attractiveness of the own consumption bonus for small and medium-scale rooftop installations. This bonus is paid to rooftop installation owners of systems smaller than 500 kWp who intend to use the energy they generate.

Feed-in tariff rates were reduced by 13 percent for rooftop installations and eliminated for cropland field installations from July 1. At the same time, conversion areas saw a reduction of 8 percent and all other areas were decreased by 12 percent. Beginning October 1st, these rates will be reduced by a further 3 percent. The law, established ten years ago, requires power companies to buy renewable energy from system owners at the corresponding feed-in tariff rate for 20 years, guaranteeing an attractive payback time and high returns.