The state of North Rhine-Westphalia has launched the "progres.nrw - climate protection technology" funding program for Ground-mounted, floating and agrivoltaic systems reopened. It subsidizes PV technologies and systems that were previously not supported by the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). Economics Minister Mona Neubaur emphasizes that the funding is a strong signal for the expansion of renewable energies with the aim of doubling the installed PV capacity to at least 21 GW by 2030. To this end, the state government has now also expanded the area available for PV systems in the new state development plan.
The grants from the current Open-space PV support program apply to planning and consulting services as well as to the total investment costs and can also be applied for individually. The application process for both types of funding is online and begins with obtaining a cost estimate. The applications must by June 30, 2027 at the latest be submitted. After a positive review, the applicants receive a grant notification and can commission the measure, which may only be started after approval.
Open-space PV funding program for planning and consulting services
Planning and consulting services such as feasibility studies, potential analyses, concept development, environmental assessments and other planning services are also eligible for funding as part of the overall funding program. The funding rate varies: companies can up to 70 % of the costs, maximum 35,000 eurosare reimbursed. Public institutions and municipalities receive up to 90 % of the eligible costs, with an upper limit of 50,000 euros. The studies must be carried out independently and by qualified consultants with a proven track record in the field of industrial or energy systems.
Open-space PV support program for investment costs
In addition to funding for planning and consulting services, the realization of such PV systems is also subsidized. The eligible costs include photovoltaic modules, inverters, installation, substructure, cables and grid connection. The subsidy amounts to up to 20 % of expenditure on ground-mounted PV without self-supply and up to 15 % with self-supply. In both cases, the funding amount per project is limited to maximum 500,000 euros limited. Floating and agri-PV systems can be subsidized up to 25 %, with a maximum subsidy of 1 million euros.
Large funding potential still untapped: Secure subsidies now
Despite the attractive funding opportunities, only a small proportion of the available funds have been utilized to date. only approx. 5-6 % of the feed pot are exhausted. This means that there is still considerable funding available to further support the expansion of photovoltaic systems in North Rhine-Westphalia. Companies that are currently willing to implement PV systems therefore have an excellent opportunity to benefit from the subsidies for planning, consulting and investment. In view of the ambitious targets for doubling PV output by 2030, the program offers both a financial incentive and planning security for forward-looking solar projects.