Once the installation work is complete, a PV system is put into operation. Find out everything you need to know about this topic here, from the requirements to the necessary tests and the documents required.

First things first

• A PV system is commissioned when it first produces electricity and this electricity is consumed or stored outside the system.
• Before commissioning, all structural and technical requirements must be met and the system must be tested.
• You must report the solar system to the grid operator, the Federal Network Agency and the tax office.
• Commissioning before the meter is replaced is not permitted and is punishable by law.
• Numerous documents such as site plans and test reports are required for commissioning.

What is the commissioning of a PV system? 

Commissioning a PV system is the process in which the system produces electricity for the first time and this electricity is consumed or stored. This marks the official start of operation of the system. Notification to the grid operator and the Federal Network Agency is required in order to secure the feed-in tariff.

Compare photovoltaic offers now and save 30%!

Take 60 seconds and fill out a short form. We will connect you with up to five verified specialist companies in your region. The comparison is free and non-binding.

What are the requirements for commissioning a PV system?

Before you put the PV system into operation, the following requirements must be met:

• Complete assembly of the system: All PV modules and inverters must be installed and functional.
• power connection: The connection of the system to the power grid must be established and checked.
• examination by a specialist: A qualified electrician must check the system in accordance with DIN VDE 0100-600 (alternating current side) and DIN EN 62446-1 (direct current side).
• security checks: All safety-relevant tests, such as checking the protective devices and the correct functioning of the technical components, must be carried out and documented.
• plant documentation: Complete documentation of the system must be available.

What tests are carried out during commissioning?

The following tests ensure safety and functionality during commissioning: 

• Compliance with the application documents and planning documents: The facility will be checked to see whether it complies with the submitted application and planning documents.
• accessibility of the relevant components: It is checked whether all components and systems relevant to the network operator are accessible.
• installation of the measuring system: The measuring system must be installed in accordance with the technical specifications of the network operator.
• start-up test of the PV meter: The PV meter is checked for correct functioning and the first meter reading is recorded.
• testing of protective devices: The protective devices are checked for their activation in the event of a power failure or other fault.
• tests on the technical control devices: Various tests are carried out on the technical control devices to ensure their functionality. 

The results of these tests are documented and confirmed with the installer's signature. A commissioning report is created to complete the commissioning.

What documents and papers are required for commissioning?

The following documents and records prove operational readiness and compliance with all technical and legal requirements: 

Who accepts PV systems? Is commissioning possible without a grid operator? 

Commissioning is carried out by a qualified electrician and must generally take place in the presence of the network operator. Under certain circumstances, commissioning can also take place without the network operator if the electrician is appropriately authorized.

When can I switch on my PV system? 

You may switch on your PV system after commissioning. This includes the complete installation and testing of the system by a qualified electrician. You must also have approval from the grid operator beforehand. If you switch on the PV system beforehand, this can have legal consequences.

Is it permissible to start up the system before the meter is changed? Am I at risk of a fine? 

Commissioning before the meter is changed is not permitted and will be prosecuted. Fines or even prison sentences of up to five years may be imposed.

What legal significance does the commissioning of photovoltaics have for me?

Commissioning marks the start of the feed-in tariff and brings with it legal obligations. Firstly, you must register the PV system with the Federal Network Agency or in the market master data register. Secondly, you must register the PV system with the tax office. 

Compare photovoltaic offers now and save 30%!

Take 60 seconds and fill out a short form. We will connect you with up to five verified specialist companies in your region. The comparison is free and non-binding.

Do I have to report the commissioning of the PV system to the tax office?

In principle, the operation of a PV system is considered a commercial activity, so you must report the PV system to the tax office. However, photovoltaic systems on single-family homes up to 30 kWp have been exempt from income and trade tax since 2022. In addition, there is no sales tax on self-consumption. The tax exemption significantly simplifies bureaucracy for private operators.

Where else do I have to register the PV system?

Before installation begins, you must register the PV system with the grid operator, who will carry out a grid compatibility check. This is usually not a problem for single-family homes.

After you have put the PV system into operation, you must register it with the Federal Network Agency. In order to receive the feed-in tariff, you must send the commissioning report and the registration in the market master data register to the network operator. You have 30 days after commissioning to do this.

Checklist for the commissioning of photovoltaics

Here you will find a checklist for commissioning a PV system:

• Checking compliance with the registration documents and existing planning documents
• Accessibility of the components of the photovoltaic system that are relevant for the grid operator
• Construction of the measuring device according to the technical specifications of the network operator
• start-up test of the meter
• Logging the initial meter reading
• Testing for response of protective devices, e.g. due to power failure
• testing of the technical control equipment