Is a Solar System Worth It for Your Home in Vienna?

Electricity prices are rising, the climate is suffering, and many Viennese are asking themselves: Should I generate solar power on my roof? The good news: Those who use the sun not only save money in the long run but also become more independent from the electricity market. And the best part: In Vienna, there are even subsidies for this. But how sensible is a solar panel really—especially in the city?

Solar Panels for the Home: These Roofs in Vienna Are Suitable

Financially, switching to solar power pays off in the long term. Those who use the electricity generated by the solar panel directly in their own household can significantly reduce monthly energy costs. Excess electricity can be fed into the grid. With the new Electricity Industry Act (ElWG), a grid fee will be charged for fed-in electricity in the future, meaning that operators of a home solar panel will pay fees when they feed self-generated electricity into the public grid.

No fees will be due, however, if the electricity from the solar panel is shared in the neighborhood. For such an energy community, at least two participants are required. Additionally, according to the new Electricity Industry Act, suppliers can no longer prevent joining a community. Direct lines from one's own solar panel are facilitated and formally secured. The formation of local energy communities is thus encouraged. How well a roof is suited for a solar panel is shown by the solar potential register of the city of Vienna since 2022.

Solar Panels for the Home Pay Off After a Few Years

The acquisition costs for a solar system can range between 5,000 and 12,000 euros, depending on the size of the system. In addition to the size of the solar system, other factors also play a role in the costs, such as the type of roof and the quality of the components of the PV system. The solar system usually pays off after 8 to 15 years and lasts around 25 to 30 years. It becomes particularly economical when heat pumps or electric cars are also supplied with solar power.

Thanks to government subsidies and grants from the City of Vienna, the initial investment for a solar system is significantly reduced. Vienna is also technically suitable for photovoltaics. A prerequisite for a solar system is a roof that is built as free from any shadow as possible – ideally facing south or southeast. Even flat roofs can be well utilized with appropriate mounting systems. Of course, there are also formal steps for a solar system for the home: In Vienna, a registration with the Wiener Netze is required, and in multi-party houses, a structural permit may be necessary. For single-family homes, this is usually uncomplicated.

Solar System for the Home in Vienna as a Contribution to the Energy Transition

In addition to the financial benefits and independence from the electricity market, solar energy also scores ecologically: Those who rely on solar power reduce their own CO2 emissions and make an active contribution to the energy transition. A solar system in Vienna can therefore not only be financially viable but is also a clear sign of sustainable living. Those who have a suitable roof and use subsidies benefit twice – for their own household budget and for the climate.

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