Solar Electricity and Prospects of Its Generation in Slovakia

Photovoltaics has become an industry with high dynamics and growing markets, as a result of successful policies in Japan, Germany, and a few states in the European Union and USA. However, there are still regions where this environmentally friendly energy technology is not duly appreciated. People often perceive present higher costs and they lack sufficient understanding of the technology strengths, and opportunities for sustainable social and economic development. The paper provides an overview of the current state of the photovoltaics and its potential use in Slovakia. Based on a literature review, the present knowledge of environmental impacts of the technology is outlined. Finally, the societal benefits related to creation of jobs, regional development, industrial revitalisation, innovation, research and education are mentioned. Experience from several European countries shows that simple, effective, stable and transparent policy attracts investments, and provides inhabitants with options to decide about their energy future.

SURI Marcel; 

2006-12-12

Slovak Academy of Sciences, Institute of Landscape Ecology

JRC33690