The European Solar Thermal Technology Panel (ESTTP) has been actively advancing its initiatives and fostering collaboration within the European R&I landscape. In this short update, we address the outcomes from the ESTTP Steering Committee meeting on November 12 and the workshop on Research and Innovation (R&I) Priorities for Solar Thermal held on December 2.
The ESTTP Steering Committee convened on November 12 to discuss key initiatives and future plans. The agenda covered several important topics. The committee reviewed the outcomes of the first Implementation Working Group (IWG) Solar Thermal meeting, outlining key takeaways and next steps. A draft Implementation Plan was presented, aiming to prioritize and guide R&I activities in the solar thermal sector. Opportunities for interaction with the SET-Plan IWG Solar Thermal were explored, which are crucial for integrating solar thermal advancements into the broader European energy strategy.
Marco Calderoni, the chairperson, also provided an update on the ongoing cooperation processes within ESTTP, which are vital for fostering effective collaboration. It was also decided to move forward with a new call for Steering Committee members to refresh the Steering Committee and bring fresh perspectives and expertise. The timings of the process will be decided in January 2025.
On December 2, the ESTTP, in cooperation with Solar Heat Europe (SHE), organized a pivotal workshop focused on identifying key priorities for R&I in the solar thermal sector. One of the primary outcomes of the workshop was the development of an initial proposal for the Non-Concentrated Solar Thermal Implementation Plan (NSCT-IP), outlining key R&I activities to drive innovation and growth. Participants identified critical R&I activities, including advancements in solar thermal technology, integration with other renewable energy sources, and development of cost-effective solutions.
The insights and outcomes from the workshop will inform a draft proposal to be submitted to the SET-Plan Implementation Working Group on Solar Thermal, specifically the subgroup working on the NSCT-IP. Experts interested in contributing to this work are encouraged to express their interest to the Secretariat.
About Solar Heat Europe/ESTIF:
Solar Heat Europe/ESTIF’s mission is to promote solar heat as a key technology for the decarbonisation of heating and cooling in Europe and to realise the high potential of solar heat in the energy transition. With members in more than 15 European countries, Solar Heat Europe members cover different parts of the value chain, being based in countries as diverse as Finland or Cyprus.
Contact:
| Valérie Séjourné Managing Director valerie.sejourne@solarheateurope.eu Tel: +32 471 34 19 24 | Anna Ledro Communications and Events Officer anna.ledro@solarheateurope.eu Tel: +32 2 318 40 59 |