The penetration of almost all alternative energy in Europe is determined by government mandate. So when targets don't look like they are going to be met, then new laws are proposed.

That's why this story about Europe's green heat market is significant. The industry is betting on a Green Heat Directive.

Very few listed companies are engaged in solar thermal. Plambeck Neue Energien AG though does have a division. It is most popular world over in Japan, China, Greece and Israel.