In the Business Environment Survey conducted by the German Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers Association, German PV equipment and component manufacturers expressed significant concerns about the industry's performance in the first quarter of 2013. They reported that orders were exceptionally weak, with 82% of companies stating that their order levels were worse compared to the same period in the previous year. Industry representatives anticipate little improvement in the PV sector throughout 2013, citing overcapacity, shrinking investments, and ongoing industry consolidation as major challenges affecting sales for German PV equipment manufacturers.
Fah, chairman of the Photovoltaic Production Materials Branch within the German Federation of Machinery Manufacturers, projected a 1% decline in PV supplier sales for 2013, with a potential recovery expected in 2014. Despite these difficult conditions, only 9% of companies have initiated short-term measures to address the current situation. Most PV suppliers are maintaining stable staffing levels, with few planning to reduce their workforce in the near future. Some reorganization efforts have already been completed, showing a cautious approach to managing the downturn.
Wissendorf, head of the PV Production Materials Division, emphasized that while the industry faces significant challenges, there is still confidence in the long-term prospects of German PV equipment. According to him, all key indicators suggest that German PV technology will continue to play a vital role as an innovation driver and solution provider in the solar production sector.
Currently, the German PV equipment manufacturing sector is experiencing under-employment and weak order backlogs. As of the first quarter of 2013, the average number of production months covered by existing orders was just 2.3, significantly lower than the overall machinery and equipment manufacturing sector, which stood at 5.6 production months.
Long-term investments aimed at enhancing competitiveness are primarily focused on research and development, with some additional funding directed toward improving energy efficiency. Fah highlighted the immense pressure facing German PV suppliers to survive the current market turbulence and maintain the legacy of success in the PV industry. In addition to strengthening innovation and exploring new markets, the industry is also focusing on reducing production costs and building stronger synergies between mechanical equipment manufacturers and their core customers.
As of now, approximately 100 members of the German Machinery and Equipment Federation are involved in photovoltaics. The establishment of the Photovoltaic Production Materials Branch at the end of March 2010 has helped expand the activities of member companies and increase the visibility of the PV industry within the broader manufacturing landscape.
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