Financing your PV system: Grants, loans and other forms of support – Onestep.solar
Homeowners have various motivations for installing PV systems, whether for economic reasons, environmental concerns, or both. Just as the end consumer is motivated to install solar systems, so too is the government motivated to increase the installation rate of renewable energy systems in general, and solar systems in particular. The buzzword here is "energy transition," referring to the shift from fossil fuel-based energy production to renewable sources like solar and wind. In this regard, the federal government has set concrete and very ambitious goals, which it enforces through a series of laws. To implement this restructuring as efficiently and socially responsibly as possible, consumers benefit from a range of support measures and opportunities to apply for favorable loans. Financing for PV systems is thus supported and promoted to achieve these goals. This is beneficial for the consumer as, in almost all cases, investing in a solar system pays off both financially and environmentally.
Overview of Financing Options for Solar Systems
Initially, a solar system can of course be financed entirely through equity. Even then, the setup of a solar system is economically viable and pays for itself after a few years. The profitability of a system increases with the proportion of self-consumed electricity. However, installations can be planned in such a way that one can benefit from subsidies and programs. When applying for funding, factors such as the size of the system, whether the planned project is an addition to an existing system, and whether it is a commercial system are considered.
Government Subsidies and Grant Programs
The state-owned KfW, the Reconstruction Loan Corporation, offers loan opportunities for purchasing a solar system or a battery storage system through its promotion program 270. However, it is advisable to compare the conditions offered by other banks as KfW loans are not necessarily the cheapest. Inquiring about funding opportunities in your city or municipality can also be fruitful, as regional promotions are possible.
Bank Loans and Financing Plans
The options for financing solar systems through non-governmental financial institutions are diverse. A standard installment loan is just as possible as a residential or construction loan, special bank loans for photovoltaics, solar loans, or even leasing models. Comparing the financing models of different banks is advisable, possibly with the support of an independent energy advisor.
Crowdfunding and Private Financing Models
There are also some very interesting models here. For example, solar systems for a condominium owners' association (WEG) can be financed in this way. Renting property owners can also finance solar systems if they receive a voluntary contractual commitment from their tenants to purchase the solar electricity.
Selecting the Best Financing Option: Tips and Tricks
Since funding and grant opportunities always relate to the individual project, it is advisable to visit consulting centers capable of making a qualified statement about the possibilities for precisely this project. There are many subsidies for renewable energies, but these can also vary regionally. Therefore, to summarize, here are the possible consultation points again.
One place to start is the KfW Bank. The Reconstruction Loan Corporation offers loans for solar systems and battery storage. The terms can be inquired either through your house bank or directly from KfW. Furthermore, many local energy agencies or consulting centers in cities and municipalities inform about subsidy programs for photovoltaic systems and even assist with the application process. Consumer centers also provide independent advice and can sometimes advise on energy efficiency. Similar services are offered by independent energy advisors, who can be found through consumer centers, the Energy Efficiency Experts List of the German Energy Agency, or the German Energy Advisors Network. Another way to learn about state subsidies for solar systems is through specialized solar technology companies, which are now found nationwide and throughout the country. It is definitely worth getting advice from more than one source to compare financing options for solar systems and to ensure comprehensive and competent advice has been provided.