Munich [Germany], May 12: The solar industry stands as a model example of China-Europe cooperation, Markus Elsaesser, founder and CEO of Germany's Solar Promotion GmbH, said in a recent interview with Xinhua.
"China is not only the world's largest photovoltaic market, but also a consistent supplier of high-quality products essential to Europe's energy transition," Elsaesser, also the organizer of Intersolar Europe exhibition, said during the three-day event which concluded on Friday.
Citing a new report from SolarPower Europe released during the exhibition, Elsaesser noted that China accounted for roughly half of both the world's new solar capacity additions and cumulative installations in 2024.
"This sends a very positive signal that China is on a good path to decarbonization," he said, highlighting the country's firm push towards shifting its energy structure from fossil fuels to renewables.
This year's Intersolar Europe, one of the world's largest and most influential photovoltaic events, hosted 2,737 exhibitors and around 107,000 visitors from across the globe. About 850 companies were from China, and they showcased advanced products, including high-efficiency solar modules, energy storage systems and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, among others.
Europe is making solid progress in renewable energy deployment, Elsaesser said, noting that "Chinese companies are playing a crucial role by providing key low-carbon products and competitive solutions that help drive our decarbonization process forward."
He stressed that cooperation between Europe and China in clean energy goes far beyond trade. In recent years, several Chinese firms have established local manufacturing facilities or joint ventures in European countries like Germany and Hungary - a trend widely welcomed by local communities.
"Developing local production is a positive move for Europe," Elsaesser said, noting that this not only supports the bloc's energy goals but also creates jobs. He added that during the exhibition, he spoke with executives from leading Chinese firms who expressed strong confidence in deepening cooperation with European partners.
Elsaesser also pointed to the increasing collaboration between Chinese solar and storage manufacturers and European distributors and service providers.
As Chinese companies become involved in battery parks and energy storage projects across Europe, these partnerships help them better align with European regulations and grid requirements. Establishing localized operations and after-sales support, Elsaesser added, enhances both the reliability and competitiveness of their products.
He highlighted the complementary strengths of both sides in building a sustainable energy future. "Europe contributes regulatory insights, project development, and integration expertise, while China brings innovation speed, manufacturing scale, and hardware excellence," he said.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. Elsaesser said that cooperation between the two sides in the solar sector is truly exemplary. "I believe this collaboration will continue to grow and deepen," he said.
Source: Xinhua
