The use of renewable energies is a central component of the global energy transition to decarbonize the economy. In this context, the Heating with photovoltaics is becoming increasingly lucrative for companies, not only for ecological but also for economic reasons. But why is it worth using self-generated solar power for heating right now?
One of the main reasons for this is the economic development: the Feed-in tariff for solar power fed into the grid has risen sharply in recent years. sunk and is currently often lower than the cost of purchasing electricity from the grid. At the same time, prices for fossil fuels are rising, particularly due to the successive increase in the CO₂ pricewhich the German Emissions Trading Authority has set at 45 euros per tonne in 2024. From 2026, CO₂ certificates will be auctioned in a price corridor of 55 - 65.
This dynamic means that self-consumption of solar power is becoming more and more economically attractive. Companies that use the solar power from their PV system themselves not only save energy costs, but also protect themselves from the volatile prices on the energy market. Heating with photovoltaics therefore combines climate protection with financial efficiency and makes companies more independent from fossil fuels and external energy suppliers.
Systems for heating with photovoltaics
When heating with photovoltaics, the energy generated Solar power used directlyto operate electric heating systems. Two technologies are particularly efficient and widespread: Heat pumps and infrared heaters. Both systems can be excellently combined with a photovoltaic system and offer specific advantages for different applications in the company. They use the PV electricity directly on site, thereby reducing energy costs and improving the carbon footprint. Heat pumps are ideal for the central heating of well-insulated buildings. Office and administration buildings with low ceilings or the simultaneous operation of heating and cooling. A InfraredHall heating offers a precise and flexible solution for temporary heating requirements in Halls and production facilities. Technological developments.
Advantages of heat pumps
Heat pumps impress with their High efficiency and versatility. They use electrical energy to extract heat from the environment (air, earth or water). The advantage lies in their high efficiency: a heat pump often generates 3 to 5 kWh of heat from 1 kWh of electricity. This makes them ideal for operation with solar power, as they can also generate heat on days with little sunshine. High efficiency achieve. Their use reduces operating costs in the long term. In addition, heat pumps can provide both heating and hot water and in many cases can also be used for Cooling can be used. They are therefore ideal for companies with large-scale heating or cooling requirements and are particularly economical in well-insulated buildings.
Advantages of infrared heaters
Infrared heaters offer a flexible, precise and uncomplicated heating solution. They generate radiant heat that acts directly on surfaces and bodies without heating the air. This ensures a pleasant feeling of warmth and prevents energy loss through air circulation - an advantage in high rooms or poorly insulated areas. Your low acquisition costswhich Simple installation and the almost Maintenance-free operation make them particularly attractive for companies that require temporary or zonal heat. Whether in warehouses, workshops or event rooms - infrared heaters are ideal for targeted and rapid heating requirements, especially in areas that do not need to be heated continuously.
Advantages of heating with photovoltaics
Heating with photovoltaics offers a number of advantages that combine both ecological and economic aspects. One of the biggest advantages is the Cost reductionSelf-generated solar power is much cheaper than grid electricity or fossil fuels. Overall, energy costs can be reduced considerably. Companies will also more independent from traditional energy suppliers and the fluctuations volatile marketswhich increases the security of the energy supply.
In addition to the financial benefits, the Environmental friendliness a decisive factor. The use of renewable energies such as photovoltaics makes an active contribution to climate protection, as it replaces fossil fuels and reduces energy consumption. CO₂ emissions are eliminated. For companies, this means not only improving their environmental footprint, but also strengthening their image as a sustainable player. Modern, environmentally friendly building technology increases also the Value of real estateThis ensures compliance with future environmental standards and the components often have a service life of 20-30 years.
In addition, government subsidies and financial incentives make investing in photovoltaic systems particularly attractive. By combining these advantages, companies can sustainably reduce their operating costs, strengthen their competitiveness and at the same time set an example for environmental awareness.
For which companies is heating with photovoltaics suitable?
The use of photovoltaics for heating can be particularly worthwhile for various companies, depending on the type of building, energy equipment and existing infrastructure. In the course of a Building refurbishment usually offers a good opportunity to install a PV system and convert to modern heating systems such as heat pumps or infrared heating at the same time. This significantly increases energy efficiency and reduces energy costs in the long term.
For companies that new buildings Photovoltaics are particularly interesting for project developers, as sustainable energy concepts can be integrated as early as the planning phase. New buildings can be optimally designed for the use of PV and efficient heating systems such as panel heating or low-temperature heating systems. Such systems work particularly efficiently with renewable energy as they can be operated with low flow temperatures.
Companies that already own PV systems and use green Surplus electricity feed into the grid can also benefit by using the electricity directly for heating purposes. The proportion of self-consumption can be increased, particularly in combination with heat pumps and infrared heaters. This eliminates the need to purchase expensive fossil fuels for heating and increases the cost-effectiveness of the solar system, especially as feed-in tariffs are currently falling.
Even companies without a PV system, but which have roof or open space available and a Plan installationcan usefully integrate heating with photovoltaics into their energy concept. The combination with heat pumps is particularly recommended for well-insulated buildings, as these can convert the PV energy generated into heating power in a highly efficient manner. Companies with less well-insulated halls or high rooms, on the other hand, should rely on infrared heaters, as these enable direct and efficient heat dissipation and thus compensate for energy weaknesses in the building.
Heating with photovoltaics is also particularly worthwhile for companies that already have a low-temperature heating system such as Surface heating systems on walls, ceilings or floors or are planning such a conversion. Such heating systems also use the cheap PV electricity outside of production times to heat the buildings. They therefore serve as a heat or energy store at weekends. The combination of photovoltaics and suitable heating technologies is therefore an opportunity for many companies to reduce costs and make a contribution to the energy transition at the same time.
Conversion & economy
Contracting are available for both photovoltaic systems and modern heating systems, so that companies do not have to invest their own money in retrofitting or installation. Companies that decide to purchase heat pumps and/or infrared heaters should bear in mind that they differ greatly in terms of cost and efficiency. Heat pumps generally have higher initial costs (10,000-25,000 euros), but consume less electricity, especially in well-insulated buildings. They are efficient, environmentally friendly and usually pay for themselves after 10-15 years. Infrared heaters, on the other hand, are inexpensive to purchase (200-4,000 euros) and easy to install, but consume slightly more electricity. However, if both systems use their own PV electricity, the operating costs only play a minor role. However, cost-effectiveness depends on individual factors such as the type of building and energy prices.
Heating with photovoltaics is efficient & future-proof
Heating with photovoltaics reduces a company's energy costs and makes it future-proof. The combination of photovoltaic systems with efficient heating systems such as heat pumps or infrared heaters increases the cost-effectiveness of the entire energy supply for all buildings, as the solar power generated is used on site. To make the most of the potential, companies should first analyze their heating requirements and select the right heating system. The use of subsidy programs can significantly reduce investment costs, while commissioning certified specialist companies ensures installation and operation. Regular maintenance of photovoltaic and heating systems is essential to ensure long-term efficiency. With strategic planning and the right measures, heating with photovoltaics can become a successful model for companies, both ecologically and economically.