In the past five years, the number of specialists in solar water heating has steadily dropped across Europe. Once seen as a key renewable solution, solar thermal is losing ground to newer technologies. This shift affects both the market and the workforce.
Decline in the Number of Solar Water Heater Specialists: Main Factors
1. Market Shift
Europe is switching to solar water heaters, photovoltaic panels and hybrid systems. They are more versatile and often easy to install. As demand decreases, fewer and fewer specialists remain in the field of solar energy.
2. Subsidies and Policy
EU and national incentives now focus mainly on PV and heat pumps. Support for solar water heaters has been cut back. Without subsidies, customers choose other options.
3. Strong Competition
Heat pumps offer hot water, heating, and cooling. PV systems combined with electric boilers also provide a full solution. Solar thermal cannot compete in most cases.
4. Training Gap
Vocational schools now train technicians for PV and HVAC with heat pumps. Dedicated courses for solar thermal are rare. Young professionals prefer skills with better job prospects.
5. Aging Workforce
Many solar water heater specialists started in the 1990s and 2000s. Few new workers join the field, so the number of active experts keeps shrinking.
Regional Trends
- Southern Europe (Spain, Italy, Greece): Solar water heaters are still common, thanks to the climate. But even here, PV takes over.
- Central and Northern Europe (Germany, Austria, Czech Republic): Once leaders in solar thermal. Now the focus is heat pumps and hybrid solutions.
- Eastern Europe: Adoption of solar thermal was always limited. New specialists go directly into PV or wind.
Consequences
- Higher prices for installation and service.
- Longer waiting times for repairs.
- Risk of shortage of qualified technicians.
- Small solar thermal firms closing or moving into other renewable sectors.
Difficulty in Receiving Quality and Accurate Consultation for Solar Water Heaters
The Solution: Professional Remote Consultation
Today, with technological advancements, it is possible to receive consultation for solar water heaters without leaving home. This is a major advantage, especially when there are not enough professionals available in the local market.
Contacting Protect Safe Systems s.r.o. (Czech Republic) allows you to receive professional remote consultation, including:
- Inspection of the heater’s condition based on photos and videos.
- Guidance for purchasing suitable equipment.
- Solving basic malfunctions without the need for an on-site technician.
- Planning new systems in accordance with European standards.
Why Choose Protect Safe Systems?
The company offers unique advantages:
- Extensive experience in solar systems.
- Online consultation for solar water heaters.
- Personalized service for private and business clients.
- Support in Hebrew and other languages.
How to Start?
To receive remote consultation for solar water heaters, simply:
Receive a video call or written consultation with tailored solutions.
Visit the company’s website.
Send a request with details of your issue or need.