A nationwide Solar obligation for real estate still does not exist in Germany at the beginning of 2024. Although the current federal government had already enshrined it in the coalition agreement, it has not yet been implemented. However, the Federal Republic of Germany could Expansion of rooftop PV systems easily achieve its target of 215 GW of PV capacity by 2030. The current German roof area potential is even sufficient to become climate-neutral by 2040, according to a Study of the "Agora Energiewende". According to this, a previously unused roof area reserve of over 400 GW of PV capacity is lying dormant. This corresponds to around 4,000 km². This makes the calls for a general solar obligation for real estate all the more understandable.
Industry & commerce previously the focus of the solar obligation
The legal regulations on the use of solar energy in real estate vary from state to state, similar to a Photovoltaic obligation for industry and commerce. This also includes, for example, the sealing of new areas by larger company parking lots. Even with the amendment to the Building Energy Act, which came into effect on 01.01.2024, there are still No uniform solar obligation for all properties. It is still the responsibility of the federal states and usually differentiates between new private residential buildings, new commercial buildings and the respective roof renovations. It is obvious that the individual federal states initially implement solar obligations for industry and commerce. This is because, on average, the largest roofs. In the transport and logistics sector, properties have an average roof area of 1138 m², production halls over 890 m² and public buildings over 740 m². Private residential buildings are far behind with an average of 140 m².
Where does a solar obligation apply to real estate?
The table shows a rough overview of the country-specific solar obligations for real estate. There are countless special and individual regulations that must be observed in each case. These relate, for example, to the time of a building application, the size and percentage of the areas to be covered, the number and size of the residential units, the proportion of solar thermal energy, monument requirements, amortization periods, etc. Here it is always necessary to take a look at the current state laws.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the introduction of mandatory solar energy for real estate is extremely lively. Germany must accelerate the expansion of photovoltaics in order to achieve its targets. And the potential is there. Criticism comes from developers and property owners who shy away from investment costs. However, the financial benefits and the contribution to climate protection cannot be denied. A nationwide solar obligation for properties would enable uniform regulations and contribute to climate neutrality. Although the current government's coalition agreement stipulates that all suitable roof surfaces should be used for solar installations, a nationwide solar roof obligation has not yet been implemented.