The International Solar Manufacturing Initiative

As the global market for clean energy technologies is set to be worth $2 trillion by 2035 and solar energy continues its upward path as the fastest growing energy technology in the world, the European solar manufacturing industry recognises the significant commercial possibilities for our products at home and abroad.

While EU legislation, such as the Net-Zero Industry Act, is creating demand for European solar manufacturing products in the EU, the EU Global Gateway Initiative is a key opportunity to also tap into demand internationally. Boosting offtake for European-made solar products in high-growth markets around the world supports the rebuilding and strengthening of the EU solar manufacturing base.

Between 2021 and 2027, the Global Gateway strategy will mobilise up to €300 billion of investments. This will allow EU partners to develop their societies and economies, but also create opportunities for the EU Member States’ private sector to invest and remain competitive, whilst ensuring the highest environmental and labour standards, as well as sound financial management. Read more.

To facilitate exchanges between the European Commission, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), Export Credit Agencies (ECAs), European solar manufacturers (particularly of inverters, mounting systems, trackers, system connection technology providers, and production equipment), SolarPower Europe launched the International Solar Manufacturing Initiative (ISMI) in March 2025.

Our recommendations on how European DFIs & ECAs can support European solar manufacturing

The International Solar Manufacturing Initiative has four key aims:

Accessing Demand

Supporting European solar manufacturing companies in tapping into the enormous global clean-tech demand pull.

Advocating for Cooperation Policies

Advocating for export and development cooperation policies that will boost European competitiveness and the development goals of EU partner countries.

Securing Financing

Working to secure public financing from the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and European DFIs and ECAs to realise concrete manufacturing projects and export opportunities.

Building the Value Chain

Building a stronger and more resilient global solar PV supply chain.

Launch Statement

ISMI was launched in Brussels in March 2025 with a statement of support from eight European solar manufacturers, based in five European countries (IT, ES, FR, DE, CH), and active in manufacturing equipment, solar modules, mounting systems, inverters, and system connection solutions.