Mr Giménez, how do you expect the Spanish and Portuguese markets to develop this year?
Miguel Giménez: The global energy transition is increasingly focussing on the use of solar energy. Photovoltaics in particular gives cause for optimism in terms of the pace of newly installed capacity. But it's no secret: the photovoltaic sector is very dynamic and we want to shape this fast-moving market. Projections are therefore always associated with a certain degree of risk, as the solar market does not have the continuity that can be found in other industries. However, I would venture to predict that there will definitely be an increase compared to the previous year.
See also: K2 Systems strengthens its presence on the Spanish solar market
How will the individual segments develop - and where do you want to benefit in particular?
The private home sector was too weak last year. We expect a recovery here this year. Commercial installations have held up well and we are seeing good demand in the project business with solar parks, or EPCs for short. We have developed a new solution for this sector that is very economical and at the same time offers the quality that characterises K2.
Why did you choose Valencia as the location?
The main reason is that Valencia has become a real solar hub with a considerable number of companies in this sector, and this is due to the port of Valencia, one of the most important in the Mediterranean. Then there's the fact that it's my home city and I live there.
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To what extent does the Spanish market differ from the German market?
The German solar market has the maturity that the Spanish market still lacks: we started strongly around 2007, but a change in the law brought the entire sector to an abrupt halt. The solar subsidy was cancelled virtually overnight by royal decree. If that hadn't happened back then, the situation would be different today. But let's look ahead: the near future looks bright. Expectations are naturally high given the irradiation levels and hours of sunshine we have in Spain.
What are your expectations for Genera this year?
The trade fair will be an opportunity to meet the new members of the company who have joined the Spanish site. I have high hopes for this year's fair. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Genera until the 8th of February at Stand 9F12. (nhp/mfo)
