Business models of energy cooperatives active in the PV sector—A statistical analysis for Germany

Abstract

Energy markets have opened up to new actors and business models. We perform an empirical investigation of energy cooperatives (EC) investing in the photo-voltaic (PV) market. Deploying a unique database for Germany with 584 EC covering two decades of activities, we provide statistical evidence on their businesses, members and customer segments, production units, and financial status. The analysis yields that German EC active in the PV sector have invested about one billion EUR, managing more than 4400 PV installations with an aggregate capacity of roughly 700 MWp. Nine different business models currently prevail. The latest developments show that EC are adapting to changing market conditions, expanding their activities, and searching for new investment and business opportunities.