Insolvency shock for Brandenburg: Last solar glass factory tight!

Insolvency shock for Brandenburg: Last solar glass factory tight!

In a sad turn of events, the Brandenburg (GMB) glass manufacturer in Tschernitz has filed for bankruptcy. The manufacturer of SolarGlas has worked as the last of its kind in Europe for years and plays a central role in the domestic solar industry. With the closure of the GMB, around 250 jobs are on the brink. The majority of the 243 employees are already in short -time work, which further tightens the worrying situation. Economic Minister Daniel Keller is affected and speaks of competitive disadvantages in Europe that led to bankruptcy, while district administrator Harald Altkrüger describes the closure as a "bitter setback" for the region, which is already blessed with a few industries. The agrar today reports that the bankruptcy application was submitted to the Cottbus district court.

The reasons for bankruptcy are complex. Managing Director Nico Succolowsky leads the difficult economic situation of the European solar industry. In addition, the GMB draws attention to the competitive conditions, which are even more difficult by subsidized products from China. The production of solar modules in Germany is no longer profitable for many companies - a fact that is also reflected in the market, as a strong slump in demand has been shown since early 2024. In fact, industry experts report an insolvency wave that the solar and PV industry has recorded. According to frisn.de, companies such as self-sun and Amia Energy have already registered bankruptcy after the market for solar energy 2024 has been significantly shrunk.

consequences for the region and support for employees

The situation is not only economically dramatic; The social effects are also immense. The insolvency administrators work closely with the works council and the unions to check possible perspectives for the employees. District Administrator Altkrüger has already assured support and emphasizes that the region loses a key to the energy transition if the only solar glass producer is locking. In addition, Keller refers to the conversations with the federal government about tariffs to Chinese solar products and the desired resilience bonus, which was passed without much back.

The solar industry is therefore in front of a crucial fork in the road. The strongly increased need for renewable energies, especially after the Ukraine War and the associated energy crisis, remains a glimmer of hope. However, experts see the need for urgent political measures to secure domestic production and thus take an important step towards an independent energy supply, while RBB24 Losers in European competition illuminated.