Solar

The gradual rise in global temperatures and the instability of fossil fuel markets are driving the development of solar power throughout the world, particularly in the area of photovoltaic technologies.

According to the European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA), over the last ten years the photovoltaic industry has grown worldwide at an average rate of 35%, with total installed capacity reaching 9,192 MW. This figure is expected to exceed 21,600 MW by 2010.

Enel Green Power intends to be a leading player in this market segment.
In Italy - where we also operate the 3.3 MW Serre Persano (Salerno) plant, one of the world’s largest photovoltaic facilities - we are currently completing the installation of about 50 MW of photovoltaic power, which is expected to increase to 65 MW in 2009 and 210 MW by 2012. We have also launched an ambitious review of our programs beginning as early as 2009, thanks to strategic partnerships with a number of the industry's leading players.

As regards the development of more advanced photovoltaic technology, we are currently analyzing the benefits of the various options available, such as semiconductor alternatives to silicon that can achieve much greater efficiencies, as well as concentration systems with heat recovery.

In the area of advanced technologies, Enel has begun testing of solar thermal generation with our Archimede Project, which is under way at our Priolo Gargallo (Syracuse) plant. This is the world's first example of a combined-cycle gas plant integrated with a solar plant, based on a highly innovative technology developed by Enea.