Denmark continues to lead the way in the energy transition, surpassing 4 GW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2024. While this is a significant achievement, it underscores the need to accelerate the development of the solar sector in order to meet the 20 GW target set for 2030 in the country’s Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP). This goal is part of Denmark’s national strategy to achieve climate neutrality before 2050, significantly reducing carbon emissions in the energy sector.

“We expect further growth in Denmark in the coming years due to the ambitious targets set by the Danish Parliament,” says Flemming Vejby Kristensen, President of the Danish Solar Cell Association. In 2024, Denmark added 545 MW of solar capacity, primarily driven by large-scale projects that contributed 356 MW, a trend that Kristensen expects to continue in the coming years.

Sustained Growth and Its Impact on the Sector

Recent data reveals a steady increase in solar installations in Denmark. While 2022 saw over 1 GW of new installations, 2023 and 2024 exhibited more moderate growth, with 378 MW and 545 MW respectively. The combination of public policies and private sector interest has maintained this pace, though the figures reflect the need to overcome structural challenges to prevent market stagnation.

The private sector has played a key role in this growth, with commercial and industrial rooftop systems doubling their installed capacity between 2022 and 2024. Kristensen highlights the growing interest from businesses: “The commitment from the business sector provides cautious optimism, but we need to streamline regulatory processes to maintain momentum.”

Regulatory Obstacles and Calls for Action

Despite the progress, the sector faces significant obstacles, particularly in terms of regulatory processes and installation permits. “We need to make it easier and faster to start new plants. We must simplify processes with authorities and municipalities, so it doesn’t take years to obtain permits,” emphasizes Kristensen. Currently, administrative processes can take several years, delaying projects that are crucial to achieving solar capacity targets.

This issue is reflected in the growth rate: while over 1 GW of solar capacity was added in 2022, the figures have declined in the last two years, highlighting the need to optimise administrative processes. Additionally, grid connectivity remains a challenge, especially in areas where infrastructure is not designed to handle such a significant increase in renewable generation.

Notable Projects and Promising Future

In 2024, several large-scale projects demonstrated Denmark’s potential in the solar sector. Among them is the 135 MW solar park developed by Belectric, as well as a project backed by a power purchase agreement (PPA) with 25 Danish companies, the largest of its kind in the country by number of signatories.

The NECP also places strong emphasis on self-consumption integration and reducing grid connection fees, measures that the Danish Solar Cell Association sees as key to accelerating solar deployment. These policies aim to address the growing demand for renewable energy by incentivising both residential consumers and large developers.

Furthermore, the association predicts an increase of 750 MW in 2025 and up to 1 GW in 2026, which would keep Denmark on track to meet its climate objectives. However, this growth depends on strong collaboration between the government, businesses, and developers, as well as a quicker adaptation of existing regulations.

Solar Energy in the Danish Context

The NECP underscores the essential role of solar energy in transitioning to a sustainable energy system. According to the plan, by 2030, 100% of the country’s electricity must come from renewable sources, with solar energy playing a major role alongside wind. This goal aligns with Denmark’s strategy to reduce emissions by 70% by 2030, one of Europe’s most ambitious commitments.

The development of solar energy also has a positive impact on the local economy, creating jobs and attracting foreign investments. Projects like Belectric’s strengthen the energy system while positioning Denmark as a global leader in clean technology adoption.

A Future Driven by Collaboration

The President of the Danish Solar Cell Association concludes with a call to action: “To meet the ambitious climate targets in 2030, we need to simplify and accelerate the approval processes.” Without these adjustments, reaching the 20 GW solar capacity target will be a difficult challenge.

In a landscape where Denmark already leads in wind energy, consolidating solar energy as a key force in the energy transition could make the country a global model for the decarbonisation of the energy sector.