The PHILOSOL project: A strategic market development of the solar thermal sector in Southern Europe

Given the rapid development of the European ST market and the tremendous potential of the local markets due to favorable climatic conditions, the local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) of the EU face the opportunity to enter this rapidly growing market with reliable technologies and know-how. In order to assist them, the PHILOSOL project aimed at stimulating awareness of the local authorities, promoting the use of ST technology and involving the local market actors in business partenariat meetings. The experiences of the more ST technology mature countries show that more than a product and a subsidy programme are needed. Amongst others, the motivation of the population by information and image campaigns can assist solar energy in becoming an intrinsic part of household technology.