As the director of Systovi, one of the last two French producers of photovoltaic panels, Paul Toulouse is feeling overwhelmed sadness. Despite putting in 15 years of hard work to build a sustainable photovoltaic sector and ensure an energy transition, no one came forward to buy the company within a month’s timeframe. On Wednesday, April 17th, the Commercial Court of Nantes declared Systovi’s liquidation.
Paul Toulouse feels that the lack of regulatory perspective and protection tools for French or European industries have made it easy for Chinese products to dominate the market in Europe. European MP Christophe Clergeau describes Systovi as a company with profitable technologies that has fallen victim to economic attacks from China. He criticizes the passivity of French and continental authorities in protecting European companies from such attacks.
With 87 employees, two-thirds of whom voted for Systovi’s liquidation, many are now left with nothing but disappointment and bitterness at their lack of support from politicians and authorities. The sudden closure of Systovi’s operations highlights the challenges in creating a viable French or European photovoltaic sector.
Unfortunately, this comes at a time when France aims to double solar energy production capacities in the country. Despite this objective, the disappearance of Systovi’s manufacturing facility underscores the challenges faced by France and Europe as they try to establish competitive sectors in an increasingly international marketplace.
The closure of Systovi marks a significant setback for those working towards building a sustainable photovoltaic industry in France and Europe. It also raises questions about how policymakers can better protect domestic industries from unfair competition while still promoting clean energy growth.
As Paul Toulouse looks back on his time working with Systovi, he regrets not being able to find a buyer despite making numerous contacts within the sector. He hopes that others will learn from his experience and continue pushing for policies that promote fair trade and sustainability in the photovoltaic industry.
In conclusion, the closure of Systovi is yet another reminder that building a sustainable photovoltaic industry requires more than just technological innovation – it also requires political willpower and strategic planning from policymakers around the world.