How to install solar panels in Spain
The creation of energy from fossil fuels is a key contributor to the pollution of our planet and as a result, the acceleration of climate change. The transition to a sustainable energy model is no longer a utopia, but a reality in which much work remains to be done.
Switching to solar energy is a fantastic way to save money, protect the environment, and gain independence from rising electricity costs. With Spain’s abundant sunshine, installing solar panels is a smart investment for both homes and businesses.
Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you understand the process and requirements for installing solar panels in Spain.
This article is written by Wouter Draijer, founder of SolarMente.
Definitive guide to install solar panels in Spain
Why Solar makes sense
There are many reasons people decide to go solar. Here are five of the most compelling:
- Save money: Reduce your electricity bill from day one with a payback period of just 5-7 years. Solarmente customers save €1,200 on average per year.
- Increase home value: Homes with solar installations see an average 3.5% increase in sale price.
- Produce clean energy: Enjoy emission-free power.
- Benefit from tax discounts and EU grants: Enhance your return on investment.
- Gain independence: Reduce your reliance on big energy companies. reliance on big energy companies
What are solar panels and how do they work?
Solar panels capture sunlight and turn it into electricity. They’re made of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity is then converted to alternating current (AC) by a solar inverter, which is what powers your home.
Not only do solar panels save you money, but if you produce more energy than you use, you can store it in batteries or sell it back to the grid for extra income!
What you need for a Solar Panel System
To get started, you’ll need the following components:
- Solar panels: Capture the sun’s energy.
- Inverter: Converts the energy to usable electricity.
- Smart meter: Monitors your energy usage.
- Mounting structure: Holds the panels on your roof.
What are the requirements for the installation of solar panels on your home?
In Spain, solar panels must be installed by a certified professional. Here’s what you need to know:
Roof assessment
An installer will check if your roof is in good condition and has the right orientation for maximum sunlight.
Legal requirements
You’ll need to complete some paperwork before and after installation. This includes registering the system with your local government and signing a contract for energy surplus compensation.
What permits are required for the installation of solar panels?
- Hire an authorised installer. The work must be carried out by an authorised company. Register the installation. The installation is then registered in the corresponding autonomous community through the Ministry of Industry.
- Validation of the system. The installation is validated by the Ministry of Industry. If necessary, it will request documentation from the installer.
- Signing of the grid access contract for the compensation of surpluses. The distributor or energy trading company will contact you to sign the contract within a maximum period of 10 days. Otherwise, it will be understood that you agree with the conditions presented.
What is the process of installing a photovoltaic system?
Installing solar panels is straightforward and can be completed in a few steps:
- Assemble the structure for the panels.
- Attach the panels to your roof.
- Connect the panels to the solar inverter.
- Link the system to your electrical panel.
If you choose to add batteries, you can store excess energy for future use and become even less dependent on the grid.
DID YOU KNOW? Spain has the highest amount of sunshine hours in Europe!
What is included when you choose SolarMente?
The cost of installing solar panels varies based on your energy needs and location in Spain. On average, it costs between €6,500 and €10,000 (excluding batteries).
SolarMente offers an all-in-one solution combining solar panels, energy storage, and smart power management, you can enjoy self-consumption and maximise your energy savings. What you’ll get if you choose Solarmente:
- Hardware: Home solar panels, battery, EV charger & a heat pump
- Home energy management system (HEMS): Behind the meter energy optimisation, dynamic tariffs & a turnkey virtual power plant
- Full service: Maintenence & insurance
- No upfront cost!
Buy
When buying, you own the system, but it requires an upfront investment and has a payback period of about 5 years. Although you avoid financing costs, maintenance and monitoring are not included, and there’s only a 3-year warranty.
Finance
Financing involves a similar structure, where the bank owns the system, and the payback period is extended to about 8 years. However, it also lacks benefits like avoiding financing costs, maintenance, and monitoring.
Renting
SolarMente offers flexible investment options, including a unique rental offer. With the rental plan, SolarMente owns the system, and customers enjoy no initial investment, instant payback, no financing costs, maintenance, full warranty, and monitoring. This approach provides high peace of mind compared to buying or financing, which come with more medium-level benefits in terms of ownership and upfront costs.
What are the grants and subsidies for the installation of solar panels in Spain?
There are several financial aids available to make your switch to solar more affordable:
Bonificación del Impuesto por Bienes Inmuebles (IBI)
The IBI is a compulsory annual tax for property owners and applies a rebate of up to 50% for several years. The percentage and the period of years will depend on each municipality, although most municipalities apply a period of 3 to 5 years.
Bonificación del Impuesto sobre Construcciones, Instalaciones y Obras (ICIO)
The ICIO is an indirect tax with a maximum allowance of 95% that you will be able to deduct only once and the percentage will vary according to the corresponding municipality.
Deducciones del impuesto de la renta (IRPF)
The IRPF deduction for installing solar panels in Spain varies according to the community, but we can obtain bonuses that start at 20% up to 60%.
Ayudas para el autoconsumo: Fondos Next Generation
We cannot forget the Next Generation Funds from the European Union (EU) with the intention of promoting self-consumption and giving access to a higher percentage of the population. In the case of homes with a power of less than 10 kWp (most of the cases) the amount can reach 600 € per kWp. For batteries, you will receive an aid of €490 per kWh.
Maintenance: how to extend the life of your photovoltaic system?
Solar panels require minimal maintenance, but cleaning them occasionally helps maximise their efficiency. Just use water to rinse off dirt, or a soft sponge for tougher grime.
About SolarMente
Ready to start saving on your energy bills and make a positive impact on the environment? At SolarMente, we’re here to make solar energy accessible and easy for your home. With our all-in-one solution combining solar panels, energy storage, and smart power management, you can enjoy self-consumption and maximise your energy savings.
Now is the perfect time to make the switch with the help of available grants and subsidies. We also promise to install your solar panels within just 1-2 working days!
Did we mention we’re obsessed with providing exceptional customer service, ensuring satisfaction even after the installation process? Additionally, we collaborate with a network of top-tier, accredited installation partners to ensure the highest installation quality across Spain.
Get in touch today for a free solar study and explore how Solarmente can help you harness the power of the sun and lead your home into a clean, sustainable energy future.
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