Solar knowledge from ecoEn
Guide overview: all articles by topic
All ecoEn articles at a glance. Use the topic filters — or jump straight to the page that answers your question.
Straight to the answer
Cost & economics
30 guides
Solar System Cost Switzerland 2026: Guideline Prices, Examples & Cost Factors
What a solar system costs in Switzerland: guideline prices per kWp, example calculations for 5–15 kWp and the key cost factors – as of 2026, Zurich region.
Read moreCost per kWp: how solar prices in Switzerland are made up
What the price per kWp says about solar systems, which items lie behind it and where the benchmark is misleading – guideline values for Switzerland, as of 2026.
Read moreWhat does a 5 kWp solar system cost?
5 kWp solar system: turnkey cost, space required, yield and when the small system makes sense – or the roof should rather be fully covered. As of 2026.
Read moreWhat does a 10 kWp solar system cost?
10 kWp solar system: turnkey cost, example calculation with the one-off incentive, space required and annual yield – the figures for Switzerland, as of 2026.
Read moreWhat does a 15 kWp solar system cost?
15 kWp solar system: turnkey cost, calculation with the one-off incentive, space required, annual yield and the surplus question – figures for Switzerland, as of 2026.
Read moreWhat does a 20 kWp solar system cost?
What a 20 kWp solar system costs: guideline prices, one-off incentive and why the price per kWp falls for larger systems. For large houses and small apartment buildings (as of 2026).
Read moreSolar system for a single-family home: the cost overview
What a solar system for a single-family home costs: three typical scenarios from 5 to 15 kWp, budget items from scaffolding to storage, and incentives – as of 2026.
Read moreSolar system for an apartment building: cost & planning
What a solar system for an apartment building costs and how the ZEV works: lower costs per kWp, higher self-consumption, solar power for tenants (as of 2026).
Read morePayback of a solar system: these factors decide
What the payback of a solar system really depends on: investment, self-consumption, electricity price and feed-in tariff – honestly assessed, with guideline values (as of 2026).
Read moreIs a solar system worth it in Switzerland?
When a solar system in Switzerland pays off – and when it doesn't: self-consumption, feed-in tariff, roof location and electricity prices honestly assessed (as of 2026).
Read moreReturn on photovoltaics: realistically calculated
What really makes up the return on a solar system: the three cash flows, the honest calculation and why blanket percentage promises are worthless (as of 2026).
Read moreFinancing a solar system: mortgage, loan or savings?
The three ways to finance a solar system compared: when the mortgage fits, why a consumer loan rarely makes sense and how to plan in incentives and the tax deduction.
Read moreRent or buy a solar system? The models honestly compared
Purchase, rental or contracting: how the models work, why zero investment comes at a price – and who each model really suits.
Read moreCalculating economics: how to calculate your solar system
The economics of a solar system calculated transparently: which figures belong in the calculation and a complete example step by step – to recalculate yourself.
Read moreCutting electricity costs with photovoltaics: the key levers
How photovoltaics really cuts electricity costs: own production instead of purchase, consumption in sunny hours, coupling large consumers. The levers in the right order.
Read moreElectricity prices in Switzerland: trends and what they mean for PV owners
How electricity prices are developing in 2026: around 27.7 Rp./kWh on average, slightly lower than 2025 – and why the purchase price decides the value of your solar system.
Read moreRunning costs of a solar system: the honest list of items
What does a solar system cost to run? The honest list of items: metering costs, insurance, inverter reserve – and what, contrary to myth, costs nothing.
Read moreRoof-integrated or on-roof: the cost comparison
What does roof-integrated cost compared with on-roof? Why the integrated system is more expensive, when the surcharge pays off and what tips the balance for new builds and renovations.
Read moreWhat does a solar system with storage cost?
What PV plus battery storage costs in Switzerland: guideline prices per kWh of storage capacity, example calculations for 10 kWp + 10 kWh and the honest question of benefit.
Read moreScaffolding, grid connection & co.: the additional costs of installation
Which additional costs arise with solar installation: scaffolding, meter box, grid connection, administration – and how to tell whether they're included in the quote.
Read moreWhy solar quotes for the same roof differ so much
Two quotes for the same roof, thousands of francs apart: the four reasons for price differences in solar systems – and how to deal with them (as of 2026).
Read moreLevelised cost: what does self-produced solar power cost per kWh?
What the self-produced kilowatt-hour really costs: the simple derivation of levelised cost, an example calculation and the comparison with grid electricity (as of 2026).
Read moreNew build vs. retrofit: when photovoltaics is cheaper
Plan a solar system in a new build or retrofit later? Where new builds have cost advantages, what really makes retrofitting more expensive – and why «later» is the most expensive route.
Read moreFacade PV: what installation costs
What facade photovoltaics costs and why it's more per kWp than the roof: scaffolding, substructure, lower yield – but winter power at the right time. Honestly assessed.
Read moreSolar carport: costs & options
What a solar carport costs: why the supporting structure is the biggest cost block, how carport, charging station and PV combine – and when the whole thing pays off.
Read moreBalcony power plants in Switzerland: costs & rules
What a balcony power plant costs in Switzerland and which rules apply: registration with the grid operator, power limit, tenant situation – and when it pays off (as of 2026).
Read moreSolar roof instead of tiled roof: the cost comparison for renovations
Solar roof or new tiled roof when renovating? Why you compare the system not against zero but against the roof covering that's due anyway – and when that works out.
Read morePhotovoltaic prices 2026: how costs have developed
How photovoltaic prices have developed: a significant decline over the decade, now flatter. Why waiting for lower prices rarely pays off (as of 2026).
Read moreReading a solar quote: what's behind every cost item
What's behind every line of a solar quote? Modules, installation, scaffolding, electrics, registrations – every item explained, and how to tell what's missing.
Read moreCheap vs. expensive: how to really spot quality differences
Quality isn't on the price tag: how to spot real differences in quotes, advice, components and installation – and where saving is safe (as of 2026).
Read moreSolar system cost per m²: 30, 50, 100 m² of roof
What does a solar system cost per square metre of roof? Converting m² to kWp, guideline values for 30 to 200 m² and why the industry still calculates per kWp. As of 2026.
Read moreRenting out roof space for solar: is it worth it?
Rent your roof to a solar operator or invest yourself? Contract term, roof renovation, land register and revenue – the points that must be clarified before signing.
Read moreIncentives & law
47 guides
Solar Incentives Switzerland 2026: All Contributions at a Glance
One-off feed-in incentive, tax deduction, cantonal and municipal programmes: which incentives you receive for your solar system in 2026 – and how the application works.
Read moreOne-off feed-in incentive (EIV): eligibility, amount & process
The one-off feed-in incentive for solar systems explained: current rates per kWp, who is eligible, how the Pronovo application works and what timeline to expect.
Read morePronovo registration step by step
Applying for the one-off feed-in incentive with Pronovo: account, application, certification, payout – the process step by step, with the documents you need.
Read moreKLEIV or GREIV? The differences simply explained
KLEIV for systems under 100 kW, GREIV from 100 kW – with different procedures: KLEIV after commissioning, GREIV before construction. Plus the right to choose and the HEIV special route.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in the Canton of Zurich: the overview
What really exists in the Canton of Zurich in 2026: the federal one-off feed-in incentive, additional contributions from individual municipalities, full tax deduction – and where to check your postcode.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in the City of Zurich: what applies in 2026
What the City of Zurich has paid since August 2026: CHF 5,000 base contribution, higher kWp rates, new storage incentive with second-life bonus – and how to apply.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in the Canton of Aargau: the overview
There's no cantonal PV incentive in Aargau – but there's the federal EIV, municipal contributions, the tax deduction and, since 2026, the new net principle for exports.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in the Canton of Zug: the overview
Canton of Zug 2026: no direct PV incentive, but an insulation bonus of CHF 60/m² with a combined solar system. Plus the federal EIV, municipalities and tax deduction.
Read moreSolar incentives Canton of Schwyz 2026: the honest situation
Does the Canton of Schwyz pay for photovoltaics? The honest answer – plus the federal one-off incentive, tax deduction and where you really benefit in the Canton of Schwyz. As of 2026.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in the Canton of Thurgau: the overview
Thurgau pays no direct PV incentive – but battery storage contributions (note the 2026 quota!), insulation and heat pump bonuses with PV plus municipal funds.
Read moreSolar incentives Canton of Schaffhausen 2026
Which incentives are available for photovoltaics in the Canton of Schaffhausen? Federal, municipal subsidies (City of Schaffhausen, Thayngen) and the tax deduction at a glance. As of 2026.
Read moreIncentives for solar systems in Winterthur: how the 50 percent surcharge works
Winterthur adds 50 percent to the federal one-off incentive for PV systems under 30 kWp. How the incentive programme works, deadlines and worked examples.
Read moreDeducting a solar system from your taxes: how it works in the Canton of Zurich
Solar systems on existing buildings are deductible for federal and cantonal tax. How big the effect is, what applies to new builds and how to declare the EIV correctly.
Read moreSolar systems in the Canton of Zurich: building permit or notification procedure?
Most roof systems in the Canton of Zurich don't need a building permit – a notification is enough. When the notification procedure applies, where a building application is needed, with deadlines.
Read moreThe notification procedure: how to register your solar system correctly
The notification procedure step by step: which documents belong in the notification, how a clean dossier speeds up approval and which mistakes cost weeks.
Read moreSolar systems in core zones & heritage protection: what's possible
Solar systems on protected buildings and in core zones are possible – through design rather than confrontation: roof-integrated, colour-matched modules, solar tiles. The realistic route.
Read moreSolar obligation in Switzerland: who it affects – and who it doesn't
New buildings over 300 m² have needed a solar system since 2025, and the Canton of Zurich requires self-generation for all new buildings. What applies – and what doesn't (yet).
Read moreThe Electricity Act: what it means for homeowners
The Electricity Act has reorganised a lot since 2025/2026: feed-in remuneration with a minimum price, sharing electricity via LEG and vZEV, dynamic tariffs. What homeowners need to know.
Read moreLocal electricity communities (LEG): selling solar power to the neighbourhood
Permitted since 2026: in local electricity communities, solar producers sell their surplus directly to neighbours – in Zurich for 14 Rp./kWh. How it works.
Read moreForming a ZEV: the guide for owners
Forming a self-consumption community: from the suitability check through the metering concept and ZEV agreement to notifying the grid operator. The guide for owners.
Read morevZEV: the virtual self-consumption community
The virtual ZEV distributes solar power without rebuilding the meters: the grid operator bills via its smart meters – and has had to allow the vZEV since the Mantelerlass. How it works.
Read moreZEV in apartment buildings: billing & organisation
How a ZEV works day to day in an apartment building: billing options, annual statement, tenant changes and the question of when a service provider pays off.
Read moreImputed rental value & solar systems: the tax classification
Does a solar system increase the imputed rental value? The classification of the three tax questions – imputed rental value, asset value, income from export – with a view to cantonal practice.
Read moreVAT on solar systems: what applies to whom
VAT on a solar system: why it's usually not an issue for private homeowners, when export becomes relevant for VAT and what applies to businesses and agriculture.
Read moreGuarantees of origin (GO): what they are – and what they bring you
The guarantee of origin is the bookkeeping of electricity quality: how GOs arise, why they're worth money, what double marketing means – clearly explained.
Read moreGrid connection application: how the process works with the utility
Every solar system needs a connection application to the utility before installation. What it contains, how long it takes and why it should be submitted early.
Read moreMinergie & photovoltaics: how they work together
Minergie buildings and photovoltaics belong together: why the standard requires self-generation, what that means for new builds and modernisation – the classification.
Read moreGEAK: what the building energy certificate has to do with solar
The GEAK rates the building envelope and overall energy in classes – and a solar system improves the balance. When the certificate is needed and how PV comes into play.
Read moreBattery storage incentives: are there contributions?
The federal government doesn't subsidise battery storage via the one-off incentive – but some cities and municipalities pay contributions: City of Zurich since August 2026, Thurgau with a quota. The overview.
Read moreHeat pump incentives in Switzerland: the programmes at a glance
Heat pump incentives 2026 compared by canton: from CHF 0 to over 20,000 – ZH, AG, ZG, SZ, TG, SH with specific rates, conditions and the application roadmap.
Read moreThe Buildings Programme: incentives for energy-efficient renovation
The Buildings Programme subsidises insulation and heating replacement – not photovoltaics. What it covers, how GEAK and canton work together and where PV incentives come from.
Read moreSolar systems on flat roofs: regulations & distances
What applies on flat roofs: mounting, distances to the roof edge, wind load and ballast, fire safety and notification procedure. The rules for PV on a flat roof.
Read moreFire safety for photovoltaics: the requirements
What fire safety requires for solar systems: labelling, disconnection, distances and clean DC installation. The requirements – and why installation quality is decisive.
Read moreLightning protection for solar systems: obligation or recommendation?
Does the solar system need lightning protection? The difference between external lightning protection and surge protection – and when which is mandatory. Honestly assessed.
Read moreGlare & neighbour law: when neighbours feel disturbed
When neighbours feel dazzled by a solar system: why modern modules rarely cause glare, when an impact becomes excessive and how conflicts can be resolved.
Read moreGrid operators' technical rules: what the utility looks at
Technical rules govern how systems are connected to the grid: meters, inverter settings, control. What they contain and why they differ from utility to utility.
Read moreFeed-in remuneration in Switzerland: the system change explained
What «feed-in remuneration» means in Switzerland today: why the KEV is history, how the one-off incentive and feed-in tariff have replaced the system – the overview.
Read moreSolar systems in condominium ownership: rights & resolutions
Solar systems in condominium ownership: why the roof belongs to everyone, which resolution is needed, how costs and revenues are shared – and how the project gets through the meeting.
Read moreSolar power as a tenant: these are the options
Getting solar power even without your own roof: ZEV in rented buildings, local electricity communities, utility solar products – and how tenants can convince the owners.
Read morePV on agricultural buildings: incentives & rules
Barns, stables and sheds are ideal solar locations: large roofs, full export with HEIV, LEG for the neighbourhood. What applies on the farm – from Eternit to incentives.
Read moreSolar incentives at municipal level: overview Zurich region
How to find municipal solar incentives: the interplay of federal, cantonal and municipal levels, the postcode search via energiefranken.ch – and why asking pays off (as of 2026).
Read morePronovo waiting times & deadlines: what to expect
In our experience, several months pass between the EIV application and payout. Why that is, what influences the waiting time and how to avoid delays.
Read morePV auctions for large-scale systems: incentives for businesses
How large photovoltaic systems are subsidised in 2026: auctions, sliding market premium and one-off incentive at a glance – and from when it becomes relevant. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar incentives and remuneration: what's changing in 2026
New Electricity Act, market-price remuneration, LEG, higher Zurich contributions from August and storage incentives for the first time: the key changes in 2026 at a glance.
Read moreThe most common mistakes in incentive applications – and how to avoid them
From applying after construction starts to the forgotten municipal incentive: the seven most expensive mistakes in incentive applications for solar and heat pumps – and how to avoid them.
Read moreZEV, vZEV or LEG? The comparison for your decision
Three ways to share solar power: ZEV, vZEV and LEG compared directly – with decision support by building type, billing model and cost. As of 2026.
Read moreCity of Zurich subsidises battery storage: what has applied since 1 August 2026
Since 1 August 2026, the City of Zurich has subsidised battery storage: CHF 1,000 base contribution plus CHF 100 per kWh, plus a second-life bonus. Conditions, limits and how to apply.
Read moreFeed-in & tariffs
25 guides
Feed-in Tariffs in the Zurich Region: The Big Comparison 2026
From 6 to 14 Rp./kWh: what ewz, EKZ, Stadtwerk Winterthur, AEW and WWZ pay for solar power in 2026 – all models, the minimum remuneration and what it means for your roof.
Read moreewz feed-in tariff: what the utility pays for your solar power in 2026
What ewz pays for solar power in 2026: 8.5/4.45 Rp. energy, 3 Rp. GO and, new, 2 Rp. solar incentive – an average of 12.91 Rp./kWh, 14 Rp. in the solarquartier.
Read moreEKZ feed-in tariff: how your solar power is remunerated in 2026
EKZ remunerates solar power in 2026 at the quarterly market price plus up to 3 Rp. for the GO – with a 6 Rp. minimum remuneration, currently around 9 Rp. How it works.
Read moreAEW feed-in tariff: fixed price or market price – what applies in 2026
AEW lets solar producers choose in 2026: 8.2 Rp./kWh fixed incl. GO or the fluctuating reference market price. The models, deadlines and decision support.
Read moreWWZ feed-in tariff: how solar power is remunerated in Zug in 2026
WWZ remunerates solar power in 2026 at the SFOE quarterly reference market price, plus 1.00 Rp./kWh for the solar GO (up to 100 kW). Model, deadlines, assessment.
Read moreStadtwerk Winterthur feed-in tariff: what applies in 2026
In 2026, Stadtwerk Winterthur pays 13.00 Rp./kWh in the winter half-year and 10.00 Rp. in the summer half-year under the contract model (incl. GO, systems under 100 kW). All categories.
Read moreEKS feed-in tariff: how solar power is remunerated in 2026
How EKS (Schaffhausen) remunerates solar power in 2026: reference market price, the statutory minimum remuneration of 6 Rp./kWh and separate GO marketing. As of 2026.
Read moreFeed-in tariffs in Thurgau: how Thurplus & co. remunerate your solar power
How solar power is remunerated in Thurgau: in 2026, Thurplus switches from a fixed tariff (13.7 Rp.) to the SFOE reference market price with a 6 Rp. minimum. What applies now.
Read moreGlattwerk feed-in tariff: how solar power is remunerated in Dübendorf
Glattwerk remunerates solar power at the SFOE reference market price with a 6 Rp. minimum – plus 1.50 Rp./kWh for the GO from 2026. The model for Dübendorf in detail.
Read moreFeed-in tariffs of the utilities on Lake Zurich: what applies in 2026
How solar power is remunerated in the area of the utilities on Lake Zurich in 2026: reference market price, statutory minimum remuneration and GO – plus where to check the current value. As of 2026.
Read moreEW Höfe feed-in tariff: what applies in 2026
How solar power is remunerated in the EW Höfe area (Schwyz) in 2026: reference market price, statutory minimum remuneration of 6 Rp. and GO – plus where to check the current value. As of 2026.
Read moreFeed-in tariffs of municipal utilities in the Canton of Zurich 2026
How the smaller municipal utilities in the Canton of Zurich remunerate solar power in 2026: reference market price, minimum remuneration and GO – and how to read your local tariff correctly. As of 2026.
Read moreMinimum feed-in remuneration: the safety net for solar producers
A 6.0 Rp./kWh floor for small solar systems: how the statutory minimum remuneration works, who it applies to and what it doesn't cover.
Read moreSelf-consumption or export: which is more economical?
Self-consumed solar energy is worth 2–4× as much as exported. Why that is, how to increase your self-consumption rate – and when exporting still pays off.
Read moreUnderstanding your electricity bill with photovoltaics: item by item
Purchase, export, GO, instalments: the electricity bill with a solar system explained item by item – plus the 5-minute check that finds hard cash.
Read moreCan you negotiate the feed-in tariff? The honest answer
Negotiating the feed-in tariff? Not for private systems – but there are four legal levers: choice of model, GO, LEG and timing. What really works, honestly explained.
Read moreWhy feed-in tariffs fluctuate – and what that means for your planning
From the KEV peak rate through the high-price years to market coupling: the four drivers behind fluctuating feed-in tariffs – and how to still plan reliably.
Read moreThe grid operator's purchase obligation: your rights as a solar producer
Does the utility have to take my solar power? Yes – connection, purchase and remuneration are guaranteed by law. Your rights, the limits, the dispute route.
Read moreThe reference market price simply explained: how your solar remuneration is set
Since 2026, the SFOE's quarterly reference market price has determined the solar power remuneration of many utilities. How it's calculated, where it stands, what it means.
Read moreSelling GOs: the underestimated extra revenue from your solar system
Depending on the utility, the guarantee of origin brings 1 to 3.5 Rp./kWh extra – but almost never automatically. How to register and transfer GOs and leave nothing on the table.
Read moreDynamic electricity tariffs: how they work – and who they pay off for
Hourly changing electricity prices are coming to Switzerland: how dynamic tariffs work, which rules apply from 2026 and when they pay off with PV and storage.
Read moreFeed-in tariffs 2026 compared: Zurich, Aargau, Zug
The concrete 2026 tariff comparison for the cantons of Zurich, Aargau and Zug: what ewz, EKZ, Winterthur, Glattwerk, AEW and WWZ pay – and what that means in francs per year.
Read moreSmart meters & export: what's changing
What the smart meter means for export: separate metering of purchase and export, quarter-hour values and the door to dynamic tariffs. Honestly explained.
Read moreSurplus in a ZEV: how remuneration works – and who gets the money
In a ZEV, only one meter counts towards the grid: the surplus goes to the utility at the normal feed-in tariff. How remuneration, internal electricity price and billing work.
Read moreUsing utilities' tariff calculators correctly
Reading utilities' tariff calculators and tariff sheets correctly: why the calculator usually only shows purchase, where export is listed and which details really count.
Read moreSelling solar power: the 4 routes compared
Selling surplus solar power: to the utility, as a guarantee of origin, to neighbours via ZEV and LEG, or marketed directly. What's realistically possible where.
Read moreTechnology & basics
43 guides
Photovoltaics Switzerland in numbers: all 26 cantons
How much solar power does each canton have? 331,271 systems from the Pronovo register, analysed per capita, by system size and by roof-integrated share – with open methodology and sources for every figure.
Read moreHow does photovoltaics work? From sunlight to your own electricity
How sunlight becomes electricity: the photovoltaic effect, the parts of a solar system and how much yield is realistic in Switzerland (as of 2026).
Read moreStructure of a solar system: all components explained
Modules, inverter, substructure, meter and cabling: what a photovoltaic system consists of and what each component does – clearly explained.
Read moreMonocrystalline vs. polycrystalline: which modules are standard today
The difference between monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar modules simply explained – and why only one type is worthwhile in practice for new systems.
Read moreGlass-glass or glass-foil modules: what's the difference?
Glass-glass modules are more robust and durable, glass-foil modules lighter and cheaper. What the difference in structure means – and when which module pays off.
Read moreBifacial modules: when double-sided yields really pay off
Bifacial solar modules also generate electricity on the back. Where the extra yield pays off – flat roof, light surface – and where it fizzles out on a pitched roof. Honestly explained.
Read moreSolar module efficiency: what the figure really says
What solar module efficiency really means, which values are common today and why high efficiency isn't the deciding criterion for every roof.
Read moreThe inverter: functions, types and selection
The inverter is the heart of every solar system: what it does, what types there are and what to look for when choosing – clearly explained.
Read moreString or micro-inverter: which suits your roof?
Micro-inverters convert power per module, string units centrally: the honest comparison on shading, cost, service and storage – and when which fits.
Read morePower optimisers: sensible or superfluous?
Power optimisers control each module individually on the string inverter. When they bring real extra yield with shading – and when they're superfluous.
Read moreHybrid inverter: who it pays off for
A hybrid inverter combines a solar and battery inverter in one device – and makes the system storage-ready. When it pays off and when a string unit is enough.
Read moreRoof-integrated vs. on-roof mounting: technology, appearance and when which pays off
Roof-integrated or on-roof mounting: how the two systems differ in technology, appearance, cost and watertightness – and when which option is right.
Read morePhotovoltaics on a flat roof: east-west or south orientation?
Solar system on a flat roof: east-west gives more modules and an even yield, south the highest midday peak. Why east-west is usually the smarter choice today.
Read moreFacade photovoltaics: when the vertical surface pays off
Solar modules on the facade: why the vertical surface delivers winter power, when it sensibly complements the roof, what permits and structure require – honestly assessed.
Read moreSolar tiles: the almost invisible alternative – and its price
Solar tiles replace roof tiles and generate electricity – almost invisibly. Who it pays off for, what it costs compared with roof-integrated and on-roof systems, honestly compared.
Read moreOrientation & tilt: what's optimal – and what's enough?
South, east-west or something else? What orientation and tilt a solar system needs, how much yield deviations cost – and why the perfect location is overrated.
Read moreShading: how much shade really affects yield
Why shade costs disproportionate yield, which shade sources are critical and how modern technology (optimisers, micro-inverters) defuses the problem.
Read morePhotovoltaics in winter: what your system really delivers in snow and fog
What a solar system really delivers in winter: why cold helps the modules, high fog is the real opponent and snow can be left lying – honestly assessed.
Read moreAlpine solar systems: why they score in winter
Alpine solar systems deliver above-average electricity in winter – thanks to altitude above the fog line, steep mounting and snow reflection. What's behind it.
Read moreYield per kWp in Switzerland: how much electricity can you expect?
How much electricity does one kWp deliver in Switzerland? A guideline of around 950–1,100 kWh per kWp and year – and which factors move it up or down. Honestly assessed.
Read moreReading sonnendach.ch correctly: is your roof suitable for solar?
What the suitability classes on sonnendach.ch mean, how to interpret the yield values – and where the limits of the federal tool lie. Assessment by a specialist company (as of 2026).
Read moreStructure and roof load: can your roof carry a solar system?
How much does a solar system weigh – and can my roof carry it? Why structure is rarely the problem, what the specialist company checks and when a structural engineer is involved.
Read moreMeter, cable, connection: the electrics of a solar system simply explained
The path of electricity from module to grid, simply explained: DC and AC side, meter box, safety certificate – and why the electrician is mandatory, not optional.
Read moreBackup power or emergency power: what's the difference?
Backup and emergency power are often confused: what both do in a grid outage, why a normal solar system switches off and what technology is needed for which purpose.
Read moreDegradation: how solar modules age – and why it's no drama
Solar modules lose some output over the years – that's normal. How fast it happens, what warranties guarantee and what to look out for.
Read moreInverter lifespan: how long does the heart of the system last?
How long does an inverter last? Around 10 to 15 years – shorter than the modules, and a replacement should be planned from the start. Why that's not a defect but normal.
Read moreHeat and output: why solar modules love cool sunshine
Solar modules lose some output in heat – the temperature coefficient explains why. We show why cool spring days often bring more yield.
Read moreSolar modules and hail: how robust are they really?
How hail-resistant are solar modules? What hail resistance classes mean, how they're tested and what applies in the event of damage – the honest assessment from installation practice.
Read moreSnow load on solar modules: what modules and roof really withstand
Can the roof handle the snow plus the solar system? Why snow load dominates the structural analysis, modules withstand more than expected – and when snow guards are needed.
Read moreSurge protection for photovoltaics – simply explained
Why solar systems need surge protection, what distinguishes internal and external lightning protection and when it's mandatory or recommended – clearly explained.
Read morePhotovoltaics on Eternit and corrugated roofs: what you need to know
Solar system on Eternit or a corrugated roof: why the asbestos question is clarified first for older sheets, when renovation pays off and what installation requires technically.
Read moreRoof renovation and photovoltaics: when is the right time?
Renovating the roof and building a solar system: why the two belong together, when a roof-integrated system pays off and which order saves money. Explained from installation practice.
Read moreGrid levels in Switzerland: why the utility has a say
How the Swiss electricity grid is structured in seven levels, which level a single-family home is connected to and why the grid operator may have a say when connecting a solar system.
Read moreWatt peak (Wp) explained: what the figure on the module really means
Watt peak (Wp) describes the rated output of a solar module under test conditions. We explain the difference from kWp and kWh simply.
Read moreReading module datasheets: the key figures that really count
Wp, efficiency, temperature coefficient, tolerance, warranties: what the key figures in the module datasheet mean, which really count – and which just shine.
Read moreProduct or performance warranty: what module warranties really mean
Solar modules have two warranties: a product warranty against defects and a performance warranty against too-rapid ageing. What both cover, what to look out for – and what a warranty isn't.
Read moreEnergy payback: when has a solar module recouped its grey energy?
Does a solar module need more energy than it ever delivers? No – the energy payback takes a few years, production lasts decades. The honest balance.
Read moreAgri-PV: farming and electricity from the same field
Agri-PV combines farming and electricity production on the same area: high-mounted or vertical modules above and between crops. Status and assessment.
Read moreSolar thermal or photovoltaics: what belongs on the roof?
Solar thermal makes heat, photovoltaics makes electricity – and both want the same roof area. Why photovoltaics is the smarter choice for most houses today.
Read morePVT modules: electricity and heat from the same roof
PVT modules generate electricity and heat at the same time. How the combined technology works, when it makes sense – for example as a source for the heat pump – and why it remains a niche.
Read morePerovskite & co.: the module technologies of the future
Perovskite solar cells and tandem modules: what the new technology promises, where the hurdles lie and whether it's worth waiting for it before buying solar (as of 2026).
Read moreHow many solar modules do I need?
How many solar modules a single-family home needs: guideline values by consumption and roof area, plus the influence of a heat pump and EV (as of 2026).
Read moreCalculating PV system size: how to size correctly
Calculating PV system size in three steps: bringing together consumption, roof area and yield – with a rule of thumb and worked example (as of 2026).
Read moreBattery storage
27 guides
Reference: solar system with salt battery storage in Küsnacht ZH
A completed project in Küsnacht ZH: 24.71 kWp on the south roof, combined with salt battery storage and backup power. Technology, process and practical experience.
Read moreBattery storage in Switzerland: the complete guide
Everything about battery storage in Switzerland: how it works, what it costs, which size fits and when it pays off – honestly assessed, with guideline values (as of 2026).
Read moreWhat does battery storage cost? Guideline prices for Switzerland
What battery storage costs in Switzerland: guideline prices per kWh and by size, the key price factors and the difference between installing together and retrofitting.
Read moreThe right storage size: how to size your battery storage
How big should the battery storage be? The derivation from evening and night consumption, the most common sizing mistakes and why too big is more expensive than too small.
Read moreIs battery storage worth it? The honest calculation
Whether battery storage pays off depends on four factors: consumption profile, storage price, tariff area and incentives. When it pays off – and when not.
Read moreLFP or NMC: which battery technology belongs in the house?
LFP or NMC in a home battery? Why the safer, longer-lasting LFP cell is the obvious choice for most houses – and where NMC has its strengths. Honestly explained.
Read moreSaltwater storage: the Swiss alternative?
Saltwater storage is considered a particularly safe, environmentally friendly battery alternative. What the technology can do, where its limits lie and who it suits.
Read moreDC or AC coupling: which suits your system?
DC- or AC-coupled storage? What distinguishes the concepts, how much efficiency counts and why different solutions usually suit new systems and retrofits.
Read moreRetrofitting battery storage: what to consider
Retrofitting storage to an existing solar system: why AC coupling is usually the way, what makes retrofitting more expensive than factory installation – and when it pays off.
Read moreBackup power with battery storage: what really works in a power cut
What battery storage can really do in a power cut: backup vs. emergency power, which devices keep running, whether the system can recharge – honestly assessed.
Read moreLifespan and charge cycles of battery storage
How long does battery storage last? Charge cycles, calendar years and remaining capacity explained – and why home batteries age more slowly in everyday use than often feared.
Read moreBattery storage and fire safety: how safe are home batteries?
How safe are home batteries? Why modern LFP batteries are considered robust, what role battery management and installation location play – and what professional installation involves.
Read moreThe right place for battery storage: basement, garage or technical room?
Where to put the battery storage? Why basements and technical rooms are ideal, what matters in a garage and why temperature determines lifespan.
Read moreBattery storage in winter: why it's rarely full – and why that's normal
Why battery storage is rarely full in winter, what looks normal in the app and what doesn't – and why this is neither a defect nor a planning error.
Read moreDepth of discharge and usable capacity: what storage really delivers
Gross capacity, usable capacity, depth of discharge (DoD): what the terms mean, why storage is compared per usable kilowatt-hour – and what modern batteries deliver.
Read moreStorage monitoring: what the app shows – and which values really count
State of charge, cycles, self-consumption rate: what the storage app really shows, which values count, what's normal in winter – and when a value warrants a call.
Read moreMarketing flexibility: when storage earns money too
Dynamic tariffs, flexibility for the grid operator, aggregator pools: how battery storage can earn money beyond self-consumption – and where the limits lie.
Read moreThe EV as battery storage: does it replace the home battery?
Can the EV replace home storage? Bidirectional charging makes it possible – but it's not yet a broad standard. What works today, what doesn't, and how to plan wisely.
Read moreSecond-life batteries: sensible for your home?
Retired EV batteries as home storage: why the second-life idea is ecologically convincing, where the catches are for homes and who it suits.
Read moreBattery storage in apartment buildings & ZEV
How battery storage works in an apartment building: as shared storage behind the ZEV meter. Who benefits, how it's distributed and what matters.
Read moreCommercial storage: cutting peak loads, reducing costs
Why battery storage pays off differently in business than in homes: demand tariffs, peak shaving, self-consumption and multiple uses – the practical overview.
Read moreMaintaining battery storage: what's really necessary
Battery storage is low-maintenance – but not maintenance-free. What monitoring, software updates and the right environment achieve and when the specialist company needs to step in.
Read moreUnderstanding storage warranties: time, cycles, remaining capacity
What a storage warranty really promises: it combines years, charge cycles and a guaranteed remaining capacity. What to look for when comparing – and what it doesn't promise.
Read moreDisposing of & recycling battery storage
How a home battery is disposed of and recycled at the end of its life: via the battery take-back system, professionally and never DIY. What happens to the raw materials.
Read moreBattery storage and heat pump: how they work together
Battery storage and heat pump under the same roof: do they compete for solar power? Why the boiler is the cheaper storage and what the EMS coordinates.
Read moreStorage trends 2026: what's really happening with home batteries
Storage trends 2026 assessed: falling prices, LFP as standard, flexibility as a source of revenue, bidirectional charging on the horizon – and what matters for buying.
Read moreBattery storage without a solar system: is it worth it?
Battery storage without a PV system: technically possible, usually not economical. When the exception works – dynamic tariffs, backup power, peak loads – and which order is better.
Read moreHeat pump
29 guides
Combining a heat pump and photovoltaics: the complete guide
Combining a heat pump with a solar system: how they work together, how big the PV system should be, what control brings – and what winter really delivers.
Read moreHeat pump costs Switzerland: guideline prices by system type
What a heat pump costs in Switzerland: guideline prices for air-to-water and brine-to-water incl. drilling, plus incentives and running costs (as of 2026). Honestly assessed.
Read moreAir-to-water or brine-to-water heat pump: the honest comparison
Outdoor air or ground probe? The honest comparison of the two heat pump systems: efficiency, investment, noise, permit – and when drilling pays off.
Read moreThe seasonal performance factor (SPF) simply explained
The SPF shows how efficiently your heat pump really works: what the figure means, why it doesn't match the brochure COP and which levers improve it.
Read moreHeat pumps in older buildings: when it works – and when not yet
Does a heat pump work in an older building? Usually yes – the flow temperature decides, not the year of construction. The practical test, the borderline cases and the right order.
Read moreHeating replacement: from oil or gas to a heat pump – the process in 7 steps
Heating replacement step by step: from inventory through incentive application and notification procedure to a running heat pump – with the right order and timeline.
Read moreHeat pumps and noise: these regulations apply
Which noise limits apply to air-to-water heat pumps, what the noise protection certificate is and how to avoid conflicts with neighbours from the start.
Read moreHeat pump: is a permit needed? What applies in the Canton of Zurich
Since 2023, the notification procedure has been sufficient for most heat pumps in the Canton of Zurich: which systems qualify, where a building application is still needed and how the 30-day period works.
Read moreSizing a heat pump correctly: how big does it really need to be?
How big does the heat pump need to be? Why oversizing is harmful, what real consumption reveals and what role hot water and blocking periods play.
Read moreHot water heat pump: the small entry point
A hot water heat pump only heats domestic water – the inexpensive entry into heat pump technology. How it works, who it suits and how it uses solar power.
Read moreHeat pump on solar power: what coverage is realistic?
How much of the heat pump can realistically be covered with your own solar power? Why the annual figure is deceptive, what drives coverage and how to assess it honestly.
Read moreSG-Ready & energy management: controlling a heat pump intelligently
What SG-Ready really means for heat pumps, how it can be used to target solar power and why the label is only as good as the control behind it.
Read moreHeat pump in winter operation: what's normal – and what isn't
Steam clouds, ice on the outdoor unit, higher electricity consumption: what's normal for a heat pump in winter, what you should check – and when the heating element is a warning sign.
Read moreUnderfloor heating or radiators: what the heat pump really needs
What the heat pump needs from heat distribution: why underfloor heating is ideal, radiators are better than their reputation – and what low-temperature radiators can do.
Read moreCooling with a heat pump: free cooling & retrofitting
Cooling with a heat pump: almost free via the ground probe with free cooling, actively with reversible units. What's realistic – and what can be retrofitted.
Read moreZurich Energy Act: what applies when replacing heating
Since September 2022, the Canton of Zurich has required anyone replacing an oil or gas heating system to switch to renewables – with narrow exceptions. The rules, deadlines and routes at a glance.
Read moreGround probe for the heat pump: process, permit & suitability
How a ground-source heat pump works, how drilling and permits work in the Canton of Zurich and when the effort pays off. Practical, from an installer's perspective.
Read moreHeat pump electricity tariffs: what's behind saver tariffs and blocking periods
Special electricity tariffs for heat pumps: how interruptible tariffs and ripple control work, what's changing with the new law – and what to watch out for.
Read moreMaintenance and lifespan of heat pumps: what's really necessary
How much maintenance does a heat pump need and how long does it last? What you check yourself, what the professional does, what warranties require – honestly assessed.
Read moreHeat pump or gas heating: what still counts as a choice today?
Heat pump or gas heating when replacing? Investment, running costs, the legal situation in the Canton of Zurich and the PV synergy – honestly compared (as of 2026).
Read moreHeat pump or pellet heating: which renewable system fits?
Heat pump or pellet heating? Both are renewable – comparing space, effort, cost and PV synergy shows when which system fits (as of 2026).
Read moreDistrict heating or your own heat pump: which suits your house?
Both meet the renewables obligation when replacing heating – but the models differ fundamentally: connection vs. ownership, convenience vs. control. The honest comparison.
Read moreHybrid heating: transitional solution or dead end?
Heat pump plus fossil boiler: when hybrid heating really makes sense, where it brings double costs – and which questions belong before the decision (as of 2026).
Read moreHeat pumps in apartment buildings
How a heat pump is planned in an apartment building: central or decentralised solution, sizing, noise and interplay with solar power. From an installer's perspective.
Read moreHeat pump incentives in the Canton of Zurich: what the canton pays in 2026
In 2026, the Canton of Zurich pays e.g. CHF 2,900 for air-to-water and CHF 6,800 for ground-source heat pumps – plus additional contributions. Conditions, process and pitfalls.
Read moreHow we plan the location and noise of outdoor units
Where the heat pump's outdoor unit belongs – and where not: distance, reflections, air outlet direction and the mistakes that become expensive later. The planning guide.
Read moreRefrigerant R290 & co.: what you need to know about heat pump refrigerants
Refrigerants in heat pumps clearly explained: what they do, why natural ones like R290 (propane) are on the rise, what that means for installation location and purchase.
Read moreThe most common mistakes when replacing heating – and how to avoid them
From emergency replacement to the late incentive application: the seven most expensive mistakes when switching to a heat pump – and how to avoid each of them with little effort.
Read moreHeat pump trends 2026: what's really changing
Heat pump trends 2026 assessed: natural refrigerants, higher flow temperatures for older buildings, smart control with PV – and what matters for buying.
Read morePropane heat pump (R290): advantages & disadvantages
Heat pumps with propane (R290): high flow temperatures for older buildings, very low greenhouse effect – but requirements for the installation location. What that means for your purchase.
Read moreReplacing an oil heating system: obligation, cost & process
Replacing an oil heating system in Switzerland: when you have to, which systems are options, what the switch costs – and why tank removal is the underestimated item.
Read moreE-mobility
20 guides
Charging an EV with solar power: wallbox and PV working together
EV and solar system working together: how surplus charging works, which wallbox you need, what parking times decide – and the honest winter balance.
Read moreWallbox costs Switzerland: what device and installation cost
What a wallbox costs in Switzerland: a guideline of CHF 2,500–5,000 for a single-family home, split into device and installation – plus what drives the price (as of 2026).
Read moreWhich wallbox suits you?
A few criteria decide which wallbox is right: PV suitability, charging power, fixed cable or socket, and load management. How to find the right one without brand hype.
Read moreSurplus charging: charging only with your own solar power
How surplus charging works: the wallbox only charges the EV with the solar power the house doesn't need at that moment. Requirements, modes and the honest compromise.
Read moreBidirectional charging (V2H/V2G): where Switzerland stands today
V2H, V2G, V2L – what bidirectional charging can do, why it's not yet standard and what applies in Switzerland today: technology, rules and planning tips (as of 2026).
Read moreWallboxes in apartment buildings and condominium ownership: how to succeed
Wallboxes in apartment buildings: who decides in condominium ownership, why the basic installation comes before the first box and how load management and billing are solved.
Read moreA wallbox as a tenant: rights, routes, arguments
A wallbox in a rented flat: why the landlord's consent is the key, how the request convinces and which variants have proven themselves (as of 2026).
Read moreLoad management: controlling multiple charging points intelligently
How load management controls multiple charging points intelligently so that the service connection isn't overloaded. Static or dynamic – and when it's needed at all.
Read more11 kW or 22 kW: which charging power makes sense at home?
11 or 22 kW charging power? Why parking time decides, many cars stop at 11 kW anyway and double the power even hinders solar charging.
Read moreRegistering a wallbox: the notification obligation to the utility
A wallbox must be registered with the utility – before installation. Why the notification obligation exists, who handles it and what happens if it's ignored.
Read moreCombining a wallbox & storage
How wallbox and home battery work together: why the car usually uses solar power directly rather than via storage, how priorities are set – and what that means for storage size.
Read morePlug, cable, charging power: wallbox basics simply explained
Understanding wallboxes without jargon: Type 2 plug, AC vs. DC, single- and three-phase, fixed cable or socket – the basics every purchase decision needs.
Read moreElectrifying company car parks: how to plan charging infrastructure that grows with you
Planning charging infrastructure for companies correctly: demand stages, load management, billing for employees and fleet – and why the basic installation decides.
Read moreBilling charging power: apartment buildings & employers
How charging power is billed fairly in apartment buildings and by employers: from separate metering per charging point to billing systems. The models at a glance.
Read moreThe EV as home storage: what's already possible in Switzerland today
The EV as home storage: which stages of V2H work today – from surplus charging through V2L to real feedback – and how to plan sensibly.
Read moreSolar carport with charging station: when the combination makes sense
Solar carport with charging station: when the combination pays off, how it differs from the roof, building permit and technology – honestly assessed (as of 2026).
Read moreWhat does charging with your own solar power cost? An honest assessment
What does charging with your own solar power really cost? Not free – but the cheapest charging energy there is: the honest calculation including lost feed-in remuneration.
Read moreIncentives for wallboxes: the cantonal programmes
Are there incentives for wallboxes? Some cantons pay a contribution (e.g. Zurich CHF 500), many don't. Where to search for your address – and what really brings more.
Read moreSmart charging: apps & energy managers at a glance
Car app, wallbox app or energy manager: who controls smart charging best? The three control levels explained – and why fewer apps are often more.
Read moreThe most common mistakes when planning a wallbox – and how to avoid them
From a permanent socket solution to forgotten controllability: the seven most common mistakes in wallbox planning – and how to avoid each of them cheaply.
Read moreOperation & maintenance
26 guides
A solar system in operation: maintenance, monitoring and optimisation at a glance
How much maintenance does a solar system need? The complete overview of operation, monitoring, costs and component lifespan – and what you can safely skip. (As of 2026)
Read moreOptimising self-consumption: the six levers for more return
Use more of your own solar power yourself: from timers and load shifting to heat pumps, EVs and storage – the six levers and their effect.
Read moreYield monitoring: how to monitor your solar system properly
Using yield monitoring properly: setting up fault alerts, reading the right values, comparing app and bill – and when a deviation belongs with a professional.
Read moreCleaning a solar system: when it's necessary – and when not
Most solar systems clean themselves with rain. We explain when cleaning really makes sense – and when it's unnecessary.
Read moreMaintenance contract for a solar system: sensible or superfluous?
Does your solar system need a maintenance contract? What it contains, when it pays off, when not – and how to tell a good contract from a superfluous one.
Read moreSolar system produces too little: the most common causes
Your solar system produces less than expected? First compare correctly, then check the most common causes – from the connection to shading to the inverter.
Read moreInverter fault: recognise, classify, fix
Inverter reporting an error? What common faults mean, what you may check yourself and when the specialist company needs to step in – without tinkering with the electrics yourself.
Read moreInsuring a solar system: what to consider
How a solar system is insured: why it usually belongs in the building insurance, what natural hazard cover includes and when liability counts. Practically explained.
Read moreHail damage to a solar system: how to proceed
What to do in case of hail damage to a solar system: from documentation and reporting to the insurer to a professional inspection. Step by step.
Read moreSnow on the solar system: clear it or leave it?
Snow on solar modules causes uncertainty. We explain when leaving it makes sense, what you should never do and what really matters.
Read moreStorm safety: how firmly is your solar system really fixed?
Wind suction is the decisive force on the roof: how solar systems are built against it, why edge zones matter especially – and what to check after a storm.
Read moreMartens and solar systems: when cables become a snack
Martens like to nest under solar modules and can damage cables. We show signs, effective prevention and what to do if you suspect them.
Read moreWhen trees grow: subsequent shading of the solar system
The tree gets taller, the yield lower: how to recognise subsequent shading of your solar system, what helps technically – and how to talk to the neighbour.
Read moreSmart meters: what the meter change brings – and what it costs
The smart meter roll-out in Switzerland: your rights and obligations, the new metering tariffs from 2026, data access – and why PV owners benefit from the smart meter.
Read moreLoss of yield: when the solar system stands still
Solar system at a standstill? The most common causes of a loss of yield, the right procedure step by step – and who pays for the loss in the end.
Read moreRepowering: when upgrading a solar system pays off
Repowering replaces old modules or inverters of an existing solar system with more powerful technology. When it pays off, when repair is enough – the honest assessment.
Read moreReplacing an inverter: when is it time – and how does it work?
When must the inverter be replaced, and how does the swap work? Why replacement after 10 to 15 years is normal – plannable, quick and usually unspectacular.
Read moreExtending a solar system: when extra modules pay off – and what to consider
More modules on an existing roof: when the extension pays off, why new and old modules need separate strings and which registrations are due again.
Read moreSelling a house with a solar system: what applies when ownership changes
Selling or buying a house with a solar system: what transfers automatically, what must be actively transferred – Pronovo, warranties, contracts – and what the system is worth.
Read moreDismantling and recycling: what happens to the solar system at the end
What happens to solar modules at the end of their life? In Switzerland, disposal is prefinanced and return is free – the process from dismantling to recycling.
Read moreHandling warranty cases correctly: how to get your rights
Defective module, yield too low, installation defect: which warranty is responsible, how to document and handle the case properly – and who bears the additional costs.
Read moreSafety certificate & electrical inspection: what applies to solar systems
What the safety certificate (SiNa) is for solar systems, why it becomes mandatory at installation and how the periodic electrical inspection works. Clearly explained.
Read moreFire risk of solar systems: the facts – and what really counts in operation
How much of a fire risk are solar systems really? Why clean installation is the most important fire protection, what the fire brigade actually does – and what to watch out for in operation.
Read morePV monitoring apps compared: what really matters
Fronius Solar.web, SMA, Huawei, SolarEdge or manufacturer-independent: what a good monitoring app must be able to do and why fault alerts matter more than looks. As of 2026.
Read moreThe annual check: the checklist for solar system owners
Once a year, half an hour: the practical checklist for solar system owners – yield, visual inspection, billing and when a professional should go up on the roof.
Read moreMetering and meters for solar systems: who actually measures what?
Bidirectional meter, inverter monitoring, ZEV sub-metering: who measures what in a solar system, who owns the data and what to watch out for.
Read moreBuying advice & comparison
30 guides
Buying a solar system in Switzerland: the complete buyer's guide
From the first idea to commissioning: process, choice of components, comparing quotes, incentives and the typical mistakes – the complete Swiss buyer's guide.
Read moreThe best solar modules 2026: an assessment from practice
Which solar modules really stand up in 2026 – from an installer's perspective. TOPCon as standard, the relevant manufacturers and why the module doesn't decide alone. As of 2026.
Read moreInverters compared: Fronius, SMA, Huawei, SolarEdge
String, optimiser or module inverter? The major manufacturers compared and what really matters when choosing – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreBattery storage compared 2026: the relevant systems
BYD, Huawei, Tesla, sonnen and co. compared: modular or complete system, LFP chemistry, backup power and what counts for the choice in 2026 – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreSwiss solar modules 2026: what the market really offers
Are there still Swiss solar modules in 2026? The honest situation after the end of Meyer Burger, which Swiss specialists remain and what origin means for your system. As of 2026.
Read moreFronius or SMA? The honest comparison
Fronius versus SMA: two established inverter manufacturers compared directly – technology, service, ecosystem and what counts for the choice in 2026. As of 2026.
Read moreHuawei or SolarEdge? The honest comparison
Huawei versus SolarEdge: ecosystem versus module electronics. The honest comparison on technology, monitoring, origin and continuity – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreBYD or sonnen? The honest comparison
BYD versus sonnen: flexible modular kit versus premium complete system. The honest comparison on technology, software, price and fit – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreComparing solar quotes: the big checklist
How to compare solar quotes correctly: all the items that must be included, the fair price comparison per kWp and the questions that bring clarity.
Read moreRed flags in solar quotes: how to spot dubious providers
Remote diagnosis instead of a site visit, pressure with special prices, 100% prepayment: how to spot dubious solar providers – the checklist from an installer.
Read moreFinding a solar company in Zurich: what really matters
The right solar company in and around Zurich: 7 criteria that count, the questions for the first conversation and why being regional is worth its weight in gold after installation.
Read moreSwissolar professional & labels: what certificates really say
What Swissolar's «Solarprofi» label and other certificates really tell you – and what they don't. How to use labels as a filter without trusting them blindly.
Read moreGeneral contractor or separate trades: who should build your solar system?
One contract or four? When a general contractor pays off for your solar system, when separate trades are cheaper – and who is liable when interfaces go wrong.
Read moreBudget provider vs. specialist company: where the real differences lie
20 percent cheaper – but where are the savings made? The honest anatomy of a solar price: legitimate savings levers, risky shortcuts and the full-cost calculation.
Read moreForeign solar providers in Switzerland: opportunities and risks, honestly assessed
A cheaper price from abroad? The opportunities are real, and so are the pitfalls: Swiss standards, registrations, warranty, service cases – the 7-point check.
Read moreModule warranties compared: what the numbers really amount to
Product warranty, performance warranty, degradation: what the numbers on the warranty sheet really mean and what matters when comparing. As of 2026.
Read moreChinese or European modules: an honest assessment
Are Chinese solar modules worse than European ones? The honest answer on quality, price, origin and what is realistically available in 2026. As of 2026.
Read moreTOPCon, N-type, PERC: cell technologies compared
PERC, TOPCon, HJT – what sets the cell technologies apart and what really matters for buyers. Why N-type is the new standard and when not to overthink it.
Read moreWallbox comparison 2026: the relevant models for your home
go-e, Zaptec, Easee, Keba and co. compared: which wallbox is suited to solar surplus charging and what really matters in 2026 – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreEnergy managers compared: Solar Manager & co.
Solar Manager, gridX, my-PV or the manufacturer's own manager? When a separate energy manager pays off and what it really delivers – from an installer's perspective. As of 2026.
Read moreHeat pump manufacturers at a glance 2026
Viessmann, NIBE, Stiebel Eltron, Vaillant, Ochsner and Swiss providers at a glance: who stands for what and why sizing matters more than the brand. As of 2026.
Read morePrice classes for solar systems: what you really get for your money
Economy, standard, premium: what really changes between price classes for solar systems – and where the extra cost is worth it. Guideline prices 2026.
Read moreComplete package or individual planning: what suits your roof?
An off-the-shelf solar system or a tailor-made one? When a complete package is enough, when individual planning saves money – and which questions decide the choice.
Read moreContract for work, payment plan & warranties: what to look out for
What belongs in a solar contract for work: scope of services, payment plan by construction progress, the three types of warranty and your rights in the event of defects. The checklist guide.
Read moreThe consultation: the questions you should ask
The consultation determines the entire system. The 15 questions that reveal a reputable provider – organised by roof, system, contract and service.
Read moreChecking a solar company's references properly: how to separate substance from facade
References say more about a solar company than any brochure – if you check them properly. Which references count, what to ask reference customers and how to read reviews.
Read moreIn-roof systems compared: what the market offers
Which in-roof systems are there and what are they suited to? Solrif, solar tile systems and co. compared – aesthetics, costs and what matters for watertightness. As of 2026.
Read moreMounting systems: the invisible part everything stands on
The mounting system carries the installation for 30 years – and never appears in any advertising. Roof hooks, rails, clamps: what really matters and what you can check.
Read moreYour own solar system in 7 steps
The quick start: all 7 steps from the first idea to a running solar system – with timeline, responsibilities and the points where things can get stuck.
Read moreMinimum technical details in a solar quote: the 12-point check
Module type, DC/AC ratio, yield basis, scaffolding, registrations: the 12 minimum technical details without which a solar quote cannot be compared.
Read moreSolar system consultation: process, content, costs
How a good solar consultation works, what it may cost and what must be on the table at the end – plus the documents you should have ready beforehand.
Read moreRegions
30 guides
Solar system in Regensdorf: incentives, feed-in tariff and a project from the neighbourhood
Solar system in Regensdorf (Furttal): EKZ feed-in tariff, federal incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and a real project from Watt. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Küsnacht: incentives, feed-in tariff and a project on the Gold Coast
Solar system in Küsnacht ZH (Gold Coast): feed-in tariff of the Werke am Zürichsee, municipal incentives for in-roof PV and saltwater batteries, tax deduction and costs. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Zollikon: incentives, feed-in tariff and a project on the Gold Coast
Solar system in Zollikon ZH (Gold Coast): feed-in tariff of the Werke am Zürichsee, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and a real project with anti-glare modules. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Dübendorf: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Glatt Valley
Solar system in Dübendorf: Glattwerk feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Glatt Valley. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Fällanden: incentives, feed-in tariff and a condominium project on Lake Greifensee
Solar system in Fällanden: feed-in tariff of the Werke Fällanden, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and a real large condominium (STWEG) project on Lake Greifensee. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Wallisellen: feed-in tariff, incentives and the potential of large flat roofs
Solar system in Wallisellen: feed-in tariff of «die werke» (up to 9.20 cents/kWh incl. GOs), municipal PV incentives, tax deduction and what matters on commercial flat roofs in the Glatt Valley. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Zug: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the city
Solar system in the city of Zug: WWZ feed-in tariff, the Zug PV insulation bonus, tax deduction and guideline costs – plus what matters in the old town and commercial zones. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Baar: incentives, feed-in tariff and the right timing
Solar system in Baar (ZG): WWZ feed-in tariff, the Zug PV insulation bonus for roof renovations, tax deduction and guideline costs. Why renovation and solar pay off together. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Cham: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on Lake Zug
Solar system in Cham (ZG) on Lake Zug: WWZ feed-in tariff, the Zug PV insulation bonus, tax deduction and guideline costs – from single-family homes to farm roofs. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Pfäffikon SZ: incentives, feed-in tariff and the situation in the Höfe district
Solar system in Pfäffikon SZ & Freienbach (Höfe district): EW Höfe feed-in tariff, the honest incentive situation in the canton of Schwyz and guideline costs. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Uster: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Zurich Oberland
Solar system in Uster: feed-in via Energie Uster, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Zurich Oberland. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Wetzikon: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Oberland
Solar system in Wetzikon: feed-in via Stadtwerke Wetzikon, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Oberland. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Kloten: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters around the airport
Solar system in Kloten: feed-in via IB Kloten, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof around the airport. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Bülach: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Zurich Unterland
Solar system in Bülach: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Zurich Unterland. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Dietikon: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Limmat Valley
Solar system in Dietikon: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the densely built Limmat Valley. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Schlieren: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Limmat Valley
Solar system in Schlieren: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Limmat Valley. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Volketswil: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters for your roof
Solar system in Volketswil: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for commercial and residential roofs. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Illnau-Effretikon: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Oberland
Solar system in Illnau-Effretikon: EKZ feed-in tariff, municipal incentive programme, tax deduction and what matters for your roof in the Zurich Oberland. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Wädenswil: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on the left shore of the lake
Solar system in Wädenswil: feed-in via the Werke Wädenswil, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof on the left shore of the lake. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Horgen: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on the Zimmerberg
Solar system in Horgen: feed-in via the Werke Horgen, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof on the Zimmerberg. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Thalwil: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on the left shore of the lake
Solar system in Thalwil: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof on the left shore of the lake. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Adliswil: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Sihl Valley
Solar system in Adliswil: EKZ feed-in tariff, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Sihl Valley. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Meilen: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on the Gold Coast
Solar system in Meilen: feed-in via iNFRA, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof on the Gold Coast. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Stäfa: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters on the right shore of the lake
Solar system in Stäfa: feed-in via the Gemeindewerke Stäfa, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof on the right shore of the lake. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Rüti ZH: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the Oberland
Solar system in Rüti ZH: feed-in via the Gemeindewerke Rüti, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Zurich, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the Oberland. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Baden AG: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the spa town
Solar system in Baden AG: feed-in via Regionalwerke Baden, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Aargau, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the spa town. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Wettingen: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters for your roof
Solar system in Wettingen: feed-in via Energie Wettingen AG, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Aargau, guideline costs and what matters for your roof. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Brugg AG: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters for your roof
Solar system in Brugg AG: feed-in via IBB Energie AG, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Aargau, guideline costs and what matters for your roof. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Lenzburg: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters for your roof
Solar system in Lenzburg: feed-in via SWL Energie AG, incentives & tax deduction in the canton of Aargau, guideline costs and what matters for your roof. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar system in Frauenfeld: incentives, feed-in tariff and what matters in the cantonal capital
Solar system in Frauenfeld: feed-in via Thurplus, incentives in the canton of Thurgau, tax deduction, guideline costs and what matters for your roof in the cantonal capital. As of 2026.
Read moreSolar panels Thurgau: cost, incentives and installation by a specialist company
Guideline costs, the three cantonal incentive side routes, the Thurplus feed-in tariff and what the patchwork of utilities means for your bill.
Read moreSolar panels Schaffhausen: cost, incentives and installation by a specialist company
Guideline costs, the cantonal energy incentive programme, the EKS feed-in tariff and the tax deduction that can be spread over three years.
Read moreSolar system in Freienbach: EW Höfe, LEG and what matters in the Höfe
EW Höfe as grid operator, LEG possible since 2026 and the incentive situation in the canton of Schwyz – plus guideline costs for the Höfe municipalities.
Read moreSolar system in Uetikon am See: iNFRA, incentives and the right shore of the lake
Uetikon is not in the EKZ area: what iNFRA as grid operator means, which incentives remain and what matters on a slope.
Read moreSolar system in Rüschlikon: EKZ tariff, advice and what matters on the left shore of the lake
EKZ feed-in tariff, the municipal energy advice service, townscape protection and shading – with guideline costs for Rüschlikon.
Read moreSolar Guide
11 guides
Chapter 1: How solar energy works – without the jargon
Photovoltaics explained simply – without the jargon: how light becomes electricity, which path it takes through the house and why self-consumption is the magic word.
Read moreChapter 2: Is my house suitable? Roof, location, shading
You can check whether your roof is suitable for a solar system yourself in 10 minutes: reading sonnendach.ch, assessing orientation, spotting shade – chapter 2 of the Solar Guide.
Read moreChapter 3: The system at a glance – modules, inverters, meters & co.
Modules, inverters, meters & co.: the components of a solar system explained clearly – what every system needs, what is optional and where you really decide.
Read moreChapter 4: What does it all cost? The numbers at a glance
The costs of a solar system at a glance: guideline prices per kWp, what incentives and the tax deduction achieve – and where to find the detailed numbers.
Read moreChapter 5: Money from the state – incentives understood in 5 minutes
Swiss solar incentives in five minutes: one-off remuneration, tax deduction, municipal contributions – and the one sequencing rule that saves money.
Read moreChapter 6: Self-consumption and feed-in – where does your electricity go, and where does your money go?
Self-consumption with photovoltaics explained simply: where your solar power flows, who pays what – and why self-consumed kilowatt hours are worth more.
Read moreChapter 7: Battery, heat pump, EV – do you need all of it?
Battery, heat pump and EV around the solar system – explained simply: what each component really does, which fits your everyday life and what you only need to prepare.
Read moreChapter 8: The road to your system – process, duration, paperwork
From idea to running system: process, duration and paperwork at a glance – what you do yourself, what the company takes care of and where the time goes.
Read moreChapter 9: After installation – operation, maintenance, monitoring
Operation, maintenance and monitoring at a glance: what a solar system really needs after installation, what it costs – and what you can safely skip.
Read moreThe 12 biggest solar myths fact-checked
«Not enough sun», «only lasts 10 years», «never pays off»: the 12 most common photovoltaics myths in an honest fact check – from a specialist company in Zurich.
Read moreSolar glossary: 60 terms from AC to meter
The Swiss solar glossary: 60 terms from AC to bidirectional meter, explained briefly and clearly – with Swiss technical terms such as EIV, Pronovo, ZEV and feed-in tariff.
Read moreResearch & data
23 guides
Methodology, licence (CC BY 4.0) and the complete list of these analyses are bundled on the Data & methodology page – intended for media, research and public authorities.
Roof-integrated photovoltaics: the share per canton
On-roof clearly dominates – but how much does the share of in-roof systems vary between cantons? An analysis of the SFOE installation register.
Read morePhotovoltaics in business: system sizes by canton
How large are commercial solar systems in Switzerland really? An analysis of the SFOE installation register by municipalities with high commercial density.
Read moreSolar incentives of municipalities in the canton of Zurich: comparison table
Which Zurich municipality supports solar systems and by how much? Comparison table with amounts, conditions and sources – continuously expanded.
Read morePV notification procedure by canton: deadlines & rules
How long does the notification or permit procedure for solar systems take in each canton? Comparison table with deadlines, responsibilities and sources.
Read moreFeed-in tariffs outside the Zurich region: Basel & Bern
How much do IWB Basel and EWB Bern pay for solar power fed into the grid in 2026? An addition to the big Zurich tariff comparison.
Read moreZurich hailstorm of 28 August 2026: the damage report
Over 20,000 damage reports, record damage: a sourced assessment of the hailstorm in the canton of Zurich.
Read moreAbolition of the imputed rental value in Switzerland: the timeline
Popular vote in 2025, Federal Council decision in 2026, entry into force in 2029: the legal framework and timeline for abolishing the imputed rental value.
Read moreStromVG Art. 17b/17c: the new flexibility rule explained
Since 1 January 2026, the revised Electricity Supply Act has redefined grid-supportive control of solar systems – a legal assessment.
Read moreSwiss electricity mix: the share of photovoltaics
Hydropower, nuclear, photovoltaics: what makes up the Swiss electricity mix, and how fast is the solar share growing? Official figures.
Read moreSwiss battery storage market: figures & trends
BYD 35 %, Huawei 30 %: which brands dominate Switzerland, and how fast is the market growing in 2026? An analysis of the Swissolar battery monitor.
Read moreCarbon footprint of solar power in Switzerland: the methodology
How much CO2 does a solar system actually save? A transparent calculation methodology based on the official electricity mix emission factor.
Read morePhotovoltaic recycling in Switzerland: who is responsible?
How are end-of-life solar modules disposed of and recycled in Switzerland? Responsible body, financing and current volumes.
Read moreAgri-photovoltaics in Switzerland: legal situation & pilot projects
Since June 2024 there has been a legal basis for agrivoltaics in Switzerland. Legal situation, permits and ongoing pilot projects.
Read moreSwitzerland's solar potential: how much is being used?
According to the SFOE, the technical solar potential of Swiss roofs is around 53.6 TWh per year. How much of it is used today?
Read moreSolar Report Zurich 2025: figures, procedures, practice
923.6 MW installed capacity, rank 24 in per-capita density: official data and practice for the canton of Zurich in one document.
Read moreSolar Report Aargau 2025: figures, procedures, practice
757.8 MW installed capacity, rank 12 in per-capita density: the Solar Report for the canton of Aargau brings together official data and practice.
Read moreSolar Report Zug 2025: the largest systems in Switzerland
With an average of 40.8 kWp, the canton of Zug has the largest solar systems in Switzerland – official register data and notification procedure.
Read moreSolar Report Schaffhausen 2025: figures & procedures
87 MW installed capacity, a fee-free notification procedure in duplicate: the Solar Report for the canton of Schaffhausen.
Read moreSolar Report Thurgau 2025: rank 3 in Switzerland
1,674 watts per capita – the canton of Thurgau ranks 3rd in Switzerland for solar density. Register data and notification procedure.
Read moreSolar Report Schwyz 2025: figures & procedures
156.4 MW installed capacity, an above-average in-roof share: the Solar Report for the canton of Schwyz.
Read moreSolar Report Switzerland 2025: the national overview
9,498.6 MW installed, the first decline in new installations since 2017, 8 TWh of solar power: the national Solar Report with six regional deep dives.
Read moreWhy the SFOE/Pronovo register underestimates PV growth
The public installation register shows systematic under-recording for roughly the last 12 months. A methodological note with a cross-check.
Read moreHeat pumps in Swiss buildings: the FSO statistics 2025
One in four Swiss buildings had a heat pump installed in 2025 – six times more than in 2000. The latest FSO statistics.
Read morePlanning a specific project?
We check the roof, incentives, self-consumption and the next step for your address.
