The global installation capacity for solar PV systems in 2012 is expected to reach 20GW, rising from 16-18GWp estimated for 2011, according to chairman and general manager Davis Chen for Taiwan-based solar PV system supplier Win Win Precision Technology.

As the debt crisis in Europe is likely to be settled in 2012, the solar market expects financial institutions in Europe to be more supportive of the industry. According to Chen, the banks in Europe have been more willing to provide loans.

Chen added that the slight surge of orders from Germany in fourth-quarter 2011 will convey to increase in installations in first-quarter 2012. The market estimates that Germany has demand of 5GW in 2011 and 2012 demand will be similar. Italy's demand in 2011 should be close to 2GW.

In Asia, Japan will likely have more installation demand in 2012 than in 2011. China will experience a surge of demand due to policies, but will likely to benefit domestic firms only, said Chen.

Chen thinks optimistically about the solar market in 2012.