Berlin to make solar panels mandatory for new buildings from 2023

Germany’s capital Berlin is making photovoltaic or solar thermal installations mandatory for new buildings, as well as existing buildings in case of roof renovation, as part of efforts to cover 25% of its electricity needs with solar energy by 2050. The obligation is set to apply from January 1, 2023.

Berlin’s economy and energy senator Ramona Pop of the Green Party said that solar energy plays a key role on the path to a climate-neutral Berlin, adding that the German capital is setting an example in terms of climate protection and energy transition for other states and municipalities in the country.

Exceptions from this obligation will be made for roofs facing north or where installing solar panels is technically impossible, according to reports.

Berlin follows a global trend of making solar rooftops compulsory

With this move, Berlin follows in the footsteps of other cities and regions around the world that have made it a requirement for parts of new private or public buildings to have solar panels on the roof.

Germany’s capital is subsidizing installation of solar power batteries with up to EUR 15,300

According to a report by Tagesspiegel, since last year Berlin’s state government has been subsidizing private individuals, companies, and non-profit organizations with up to EUR 15,300 for the installation of solar power batteries.

To help achieve the EU’s climate neutrality goal by 2050, the European Parliament last year supported the launch of a European solar rooftop program. Rooftops in the EU have the potential to generate 680 TWh of solar electricity annually and cover a quarter of current consumption, according to SolarPower Europe.