Spain’s solar power industry has grown by 1,000 megawatts thus far in 2008. As solar takes off, the government is trying to keep up. In an effort to prevent increasing the country’s deficit beyond July’s measure of 4.85 billion Euros, Spain has cutback government sponsored tax breaks for power.

The vast amount of Spaniards and businesses taking advantage of the solar power subsidies has led to the success of the industry, better environmental stewardship and, unfortunately, an increase in the country’s deficit. To make up lost funds, Spain is capping subsidies and looking to move the market to Italy. Italy is home to the European Photovoltaic Industry Association, an organization dedicated to promoting solar power, via photovoltaics, throughout Italy and Europe.

Spain is also working to build up its exportation market to other countries worldwide. And, therefore, Italy is primed for taking on Spain’s share of the market. But first, manufacturers must complete the red tape and endure bureaucratic processes to get sales up and running. Increasing Europe’s solar generated power supplies helps the EU achieve its goals to reduce continued greenhouse gas emissions and reduce dependence on fossil fuel supplies. It also helps to reach goals established by the Kyoto Protocol to mitigate climate change.