The clean energy sector, especially solar energy, is facing notable headwinds. Many stocks have reported significant declines, causing a ripple effect across clean energy ETFs.
European Solar Market Woes
The European residential solar market is currently struggling. High stock levels, weak energy prices, and short-term uncertainties linked to upcoming elections in France are weighing down the sector. This sluggish demand in Europe is a major concern for solar companies, like SolarEdge Technologies (NASDAQ:SEDG), which heavily rely on the European market.
SolarEdge's Decline: A Major Blow
SolarEdge Technologies, a significant player in the solar market, saw a substantial decline as its shares dropped by 17.19% week-over-week. The downturn was sparked by JPMorgan (NYSE:JPM)'s decision to lower their price target for the company, influenced by subdued solar demand in Europe.
SMA Solar Technology AG's Sharp Fall
Similarly, shares of SMA Solar Technology AG (ETR:S92G), a German supplier of solar power components, plummeted by 32.53% this week. The company revised downwards its profit forecasts, attributing political uncertainty as a significant factor. This announcement has compounded the existing challenges in the solar sector, further impacting clean energy ETFs.
The Broader Impact on Clean Energy ETFs
The challenges confronting individual solar companies such as SolarEdge Technologies and SMA Solar Technology AG are indicative of broader issues within the sector. Clean energy ETFs, which hold these stocks, have been impacted, experiencing a 2.68% loss over the week and outflows of EUR 11 million. Solar energy ETFs also saw a decline of 5.45% during the same period.