Photovoltaics in the City: Is That Even Possible on Vienna's Roofs?

Among old buildings, narrow courtyards, and partially shaded rooftops, the implementation of solar power with photovoltaics in Vienna seems challenging at first glance. But this impression is misleading: Vienna's rooftops offer significantly more potential than many realize.

Photovoltaics on Vienna's rooftops: Great potential in the middle of the city

Although Vienna is densely built, according to current estimates, about half of the rooftops in Vienna are technically suitable for photovoltaic systems. This corresponds to several thousand football fields – a massive energy potential in the middle of the city. With over 1,900 hours of sunshine per year, Vienna is also one of the suitable locations for solar energy in Central Europe. Roofs on municipal buildings, schools, office buildings, or industrial halls in Vienna are ideal for retrofitting with photovoltaics.

Technology enables new solutions for photovoltaics in the city

In recent years, technology has advanced significantly. Photovoltaic systems are now lighter, more efficient, and more flexible than before. Even on old buildings, modules can be installed, provided the structural integrity allows it. For listed buildings, visually unobtrusive solutions such as in-roof systems or particularly flat modules are available. Shading from neighboring buildings can often be compensated for through good planning and appropriate orientation of the modules.

Photovoltaics for everyone – even in multi-party buildings

The city of Vienna is also focusing on the so-called photovoltaic community system for solar energy. In this model, a photovoltaic system is installed on a multi-party building, and the generated electricity is used proportionally by the residents. This model has been legally simplified by the Renewable Expansion Act (EAG) and makes it possible for tenants and apartment owners to benefit directly from solar power – without their own system.

City of Vienna promotes photovoltaic expansion

The city of Vienna supports the establishment of new photovoltaic systems as well as the expansion of existing PV systems with targeted funding programs. Subsidies are available for systems on single-family homes, community systems, and commercially used PV projects. Additionally, the city offers a free funding consultation, where interested parties can receive individual funding advice from experts of the city of Vienna.

Challenges for Photovoltaics in the City are Solvable

Of course, there are specific challenges in the city. These include structural conditions, approval requirements, or coordination in owner communities. These aspects require time, organization, and often external expertise. Nevertheless, many implemented projects in Vienna show: With good planning, professional support, and assistance from funding agencies, even complex projects can be realized.

Photovoltaics Work on Roofs in Vienna Too

Photovoltaics is not just a solution for rural areas. Even in the big city of Vienna, solar power can be used sensibly and economically. The city not only has the technical potential for this but also the necessary political and financial support. So, if you want to contribute to the energy transition, you don't have to move to the countryside – just look up. Because Vienna has the sun, it just needs to be utilized.

Do you want to know if your roof is suitable for a PV system?
Or do you live in a multi-party house and are considering becoming part of a community system?
Here you will find all the information about photovoltaics in Vienna:
Solar Potential Register for Vienna
Vienna Solar Power Initiative
Photovoltaic Funding Applications
Photovoltaic Community System

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