How has the year begun for your business?
Ludwig Schletter: For us, the year has started much like the last. We haven’t seen any dramatic shifts. The strong growth of recent years has naturally slowed. If you look at the current installation figures, it's a little concerning.
Matjaž Grošelj of K2 Slovenia: “We face strong competition”
Why is that?
In recent months, just over 800 megawatts have been installed – not even one gigawatt per month. That said, the situation remains fundamentally stable, even though we are still far from the official expansion targets. Of course, political factors are still being felt.
SL Rack offers mounting systems for all segments. Has growth in commercial rooftops helped offset the slump in residential demand?
We’re seeing a definite shift. Ground-mounted systems are playing a greater role. Our new Fast Flat system for larger commercial roofs has been well received. Customers value its simplicity. We've taken a clear step forward in terms of ease of installation, and that becomes apparent once users put it into practice.
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You mentioned large-scale outdoor systems. Is that growth limited to Germany or more widespread?
We're also benefiting internationally, for example in Africa and across parts of Europe outside the German-speaking region. There are still political risks, of course. But compared to 2012 or 2013, high electricity prices are now having a much stronger impact. That’s the key difference, and it gives me some confidence that the sector is beginning to develop its own momentum.
Does political backing – or resistance – still play a decisive role?
I hope political decisions won’t significantly slow down the industry. Policymakers can always create new hurdles through regulation. But photovoltaics can no longer be stopped, only delayed.
Even so, that’s unlikely to make day-to-day business any easier is it?
As a company, we need ongoing business. We can’t afford to pause for three months without sales or installations. Even so, I remain confident – although I’ve learned to be cautious. The industry today is very different from ten or twenty years ago. (HS/TF)
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