Increase in Grid-Connected PV System Power in Germany

This paper outlines the preliminary results of our study on the amount of newly-installed photovoltaic power capacity in Germany in 2004. Up to now, the figures published have been based purely on estimates - using sales figures from selected companies as a base. For our survey we have carried out an empirical study: As a result of the feed-in tariffs for solar electricity in effect in Germany, all PV systems are registered with one of the grid operators, and so for this study we have gotten in contact with all 910 grid operators to inquire as to the installed photovoltaic power in their respective service area. Currently, around 83 percent of the targeted group have responded to the survey. The data determined so far demonstrates that the increase in the amount of PV power in 2004 was not, as presumed up to now, 360 MW, but rather 650 MW. Furthermore, the study carried out also shows it is highly likely that the amount of installed PV power overall in Germany totaled more than 1 GW by the end of 2004 (as opposed to 794 MW - the figure stated in current IEA-statistics). At the very least, we can demonstrate that installed photovoltaic power has reached 952 MW - this being a conservative estimate based on the fact our survey is still underway. Were figures to be extrapolated linearly, the amount of installed PV power by the end of 2004 would be 1.15 GW