Guidelines for Installing Solar Power Systems: Costs and Steps

Although known for its cold climate and limited sunshine, the country has seen a significant surge in solar energy adoption. Continuous advancements in photovoltaic technology have contributed to this growth, making it one of the top countries in solar energy production. Currently, over 3.7 million solar arrays are operational, generating about 61 TWh of electricity annually.

Steps to Install Solar Panels

1. Determine Energy Requirements
Evaluate your household or business's energy consumption to figure out the size and number of solar panels needed for efficient power generation.

2. Choose a Reliable Installation Partner
Seek out reputable solar installation companies with proven experience and good industry reviews. Recommendations from friends and neighbors can also help identify trusted providers.

3. Conduct a Site Assessment
Schedule a visit with your installer for a comprehensive site evaluation. They will examine the roof’s condition, shading, orientation, and available space to design an optimal system tailored to your needs.

These assessments ensure a cost-effective and efficient solar setup.

4. Obtain Necessary Permits
Prior to installation, secure all required permits from local or regional authorities to ensure compliance with regulations.

5. Professional Installation
Installers will handle the setup using specialized tools and equipment. Following installation, a detailed inspection will verify system functionality, including testing voltage, inspecting equipment, and ensuring inverter performance.

6. Connect to the Power Grid
The final step involves linking your system to the existing electrical grid or main connection point, allowing excess energy to feed back into the grid effectively.

Costs of Solar Panel Systems
The total investment in solar panels in the country involves several factors. While subsidies and incentives facilitate a quicker return on investment within 5 to 10 years, it’s vital to consider all expenses upfront.

1. Equipment Cost
Buying panels, inverters, mounts, and wiring constitutes the initial expense. Prices typically range from €1,200 to €1,500 per kW, depending on quality and technology.

2. Installation Expenses
Labor charges, additional materials, and potential modifications amount to €500 - €3,000 based on system size and complexity.

3. Maintenance Costs
Operating expenses like cleaning and system checks are approximately €100 - €200 annually, ensuring optimal performance of a €10,000 system.

4. Storage Solutions
Batteries are optional but often necessary for energy storage. Costs for home batteries vary, typically between €5,000 and €10,000, depending on capacity and technology.

Reasons for Solar Power Growing in Popularity
Government incentives, subsidies, and favorable policies have boosted solar energy adoption. The Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) offers fixed feed-in tariffs—guaranteed payments for solar power producers. Additionally, a zero VAT rate on solar equipment reduces costs for consumers. Grants from agencies like BMWi support solar projects, especially in high-potential regions and innovative applications. State programs further promote solar energy, though details differ across regions. Contact local authorities for current initiatives and incentives.