The aim of Desertec: to produce sustainable, climate-friendly power from the energy potential of the deserts in the Middle-East and North Africa (MENA zone) and prepare the integration with the European energy market. From solar and wind power sources, the long-term aim is to satisfy a substantial portion of electricity needs in the MENA zone countries and meet up to 15% of Europe’s electricity demand.

Fabrice Didier, Managing Director of Saint-Gobain Solar, explains: "In cost terms, solar thermal energy is one of the most promising sources of electricity for decades to come. To make this competitive, cooperation between companies is essential. The Desertec project helps set the framework for such cooperation.”

Saint-Gobain Solar develops and offers various key components designed for solar thermal plants, notably mirrors, receivers and heat storage units. Thanks to this expertise, the Saint-Gobain Solar Business Unit will be able to contribute to the Dii initiative and help establish a sound industrial base for solar energy.