Private photovoltaic open-space system: permits, costs, construction

A private open-space photovoltaic system offers an alternative to the classic installation on the roof of your house. However, there are a few things you need to consider. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about open-space photovoltaic systems.

First things first

• Private open-space PV systems in the garden are generally permitted, but installation depends on local building regulations.
• In most cases, a building permit is required, which you must obtain before installation.
• The costs for an open-space system are around €1,300 to €1,700 per kWp.
• Correct orientation and avoiding shading maximizes yield.

Are private photovoltaic open-space systems permitted in the garden?

You are allowed to install an open-air system on a private open space. In most cases, however, a building permit is required. This is necessary for PV systems that are more than three meters high or nine meters long. You must also submit a request to the electricity grid operator before starting the installation.

How much does open-space PV cost? 

Open space photovoltaics cost around €1,300 to €1,700 per kWp. On average, the total costs are between €8,000 and €15,000. In addition to material costs, planning and installation costs are also included. The higher the nominal output of the PV system, the lower the costs per kWp.

Below you will find the cost overview for a PV open-space system with 10 kWp output:

If you only have a small electricity requirement, a mini PV system is a more cost-effective alternative. These cost around €2,000 and can generate up to 800 W of solar power. The so-called balcony power plant is sufficient for garden lighting or charging garden tools.

Are open-space systems subsidized?

Private open-space systems are supported by the feed-in tariff and the zero tax rate. The feed-in tariff is currently around 5.68 to 12.73 cents per kWh and is paid for the electricity fed into the grid. The zero tax rate means that no VAT is charged when purchasing and installing a PV system up to 30 kWp. You can also use the low-interest KfW loan no. 270, which specifically promotes electricity generation from renewable energies.

Private photovoltaic open-space system (stock.adobe.com)

Where do I have to register a private open-space PV system?

Before you install a private open-space PV system, you must register it with the grid operator. The grid operator carries out a grid compatibility check, which usually takes up to eight weeks. After commissioning, you must register the system with the Federal Network Agency and the tax office. You have up to one month after commissioning to register.

In order to receive the feed-in tariff, you must submit the commissioning protocol and the registration in the market data register to the grid operator.

If your system is larger than 30 kWp, you will also need to register with the trade office. 

How much power does an open-space system generate per m²?

A photovoltaic system generates around 150 to 200 watts per square meter, depending on the efficiency of the solar modules and their orientation to the sun. 8 to 10 m² of land area is required for 1 kWp of nominal output. With a tracking system, you can increase the output to up to 300 per m².

How is an outdoor system set up?

Outdoor systems are anchored either on strip foundations or steel beams driven into the ground. These structures ensure a stable installation that can withstand even severe weather conditions. The choice of anchoring depends on the soil conditions and the available space. In addition, you can use special mounting systems to optimally place the modules and minimize shadows.

What should I pay attention to during installation?

If you install a solar system in your garden or on your lawn, you should pay particular attention to the following points:

• Choose a Location with maximum sunlight. This should be free of shade throughout the day, for example from trees or buildings. This ensures optimal energy yield.
• The modules should ideally be south with an inclination angle between 30 and 40 degrees. This configuration maximizes electricity production.
• Please note the minimum distance to the property boundaries and neighbors. These distances vary depending on the region.
• Check if a building permit is necessary. This is the case as soon as the PV system is more than three meters high or nine meters wide. The exact requirements depend on the local building regulations.
• Pay attention to a stable constructionthat is weatherproof and can withstand strong winds or other weather conditions.
• Consider whether a tracking system It adapts the solar modules to the movement of the sun. Such systems can increase energy production by up to 30%. However, they require additional investment and increase maintenance costs.