Gregor Kuepper, Managing Director SOLARWOLRD Africa with Patrik Danz, CSO IBC SOLAR.
Bad Staffelstein, July 10, 2024 – IBC SOLAR, a leading full-service provider of solar energy solutions, is strengthening its international market position: With the establishment of two new subsidiaries in France and Austria, as well as a majority stake in SOLARWORLD Africa, the company is continuing to expand its global presence. IBC SOLAR is already active in many European countries, including Poland, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland.
Clear growth strategy in France
Given the growing importance of the French solar market, IBC SOLAR has founded the subsidiary “IBC SOLAR France,” headquartered in Lyon, to serve the market locally instead of from its German headquarters. This move allows for faster and more tailored customer service. Operations in France will begin in July 2025 with customized solutions for the local sales market.
“The French solar market offers enormous potential – particularly in light of the country’s expansion goals and ideal climatic conditions,” explains Patrik Danz, CSO of IBC SOLAR. “With a tailored product portfolio, regional proximity, and many years of expertise, we provide customers and partners with reliable solutions across the entire solar value chain.”
Strengthened presence in the DACH region
In March 2025, the subsidiary “IBC SOLAR Austria,” based in Vienna, began operations. The founding of this entity highlights the strategic importance of the Austrian market.
“Being close to our specialist partners and installers is crucial to actively shaping the energy transition,” Danz continues. “We’re seeing growing demand in Austria for high-quality, sustainable solutions – especially in the storage sector. In general, there is a high demand for robust mounting systems that remain safe and reliable even under heavy snow loads. Winter efficiency, strong electricity yields, and low-maintenance operation are key focal points.”
Majority stake in SOLARWORLD Africa
In April 2025, IBC SOLAR acquired a majority share in SOLARWORLD Africa, an experienced provider of solar energy solutions based in Cape Town. Full acquisition is planned for 2027. SOLARWORLD Africa boasts more than 40 years of market experience and holds a strong position on the African continent.
IBC SOLAR has been represented in South Africa with its own subsidiary since 2017. The acquisition of SOLARWORLD Africa is a key step in expanding market share across the entire African continent. The focus is particularly on commercial projects, large-scale storage systems, and the residential sector. As part of this expansion, SOLARWORLD Africa will merge with IBC SOLAR’s South African subsidiary to leverage synergies more effectively.
“SOLARWORLD Africa has been a valued partner in South Africa for many years. With this investment, we’re strengthening our local presence and expanding our cooperation in a market that is crucial for sustainable energy solutions,” says Patrik Danz.