Sigmar Gabriel handing over the symbolic solar map at the launch of the "week of sun and pellets" together with (from left to right) Carsten Körnig, CEO, German Solar Industry Association (BSW-Solar), Martin Bentele, CEO, German Energy Wood and Pellet Association (DEPV). © Solar Promotion GmbH

Wind power and solar energy are the backbone of the energy transition. These two sources of energy account for the bulk of electricity generated on the basis of renewable energies in Germany. The share of renewables in electricity consumption currently totals more than 27 per cent. Six per cent of this is accounted for by solar energy.

Furthermore, solar energy also plays an important role for German exporters. Federal Minister Gabriel underlined this at his visit to the leading trade fair for the solar industry, Intersolar, in Munich. He said that many companies have suffered from strong competition from Asia. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy is providing targeted funding to help the sector. This year, the Ministry is providing funding of €36.7 million for 239 projects in the field of photovoltaics. The support measures focus on business models with medium-term and long-term prospects in Germany: high-quality modules, services technology and complex system solutions that require excellent engineering.

During a tour of the trade fair, Minister Gabriel visited selected stands, where exhibitors explained new technologies and innovative products. He spent some time at the joint stand of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy "Solar Innovations - Made in Germany", where thirteen firms were represented this year. The Ministry has promoted the participation of young, innovative companies in leading trade fairs in Germany since 2007. Support is provided to around 650 exhibitors at approximately 50 trade fairs annually.

The programme helps young, innovative firms to present new products and processes to an international audience. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy enables exhibitors to participate at favourable conditions. 70% of the cost of participation are funded for the first two trade fairs and 60% for each additional trade fair.