Berlin home solar system

To start tapping more into the potential of solar energy, both in the private and the public sector, the SolarZentrum (solar centre) Berlin was opened in May 2019. It is a component of the “Masterplan Solarcity”, which works as an independent advisory centre on the topic of solar energy (SolarZentrum Berlin, only in German).

So far, solar energy has been used more heavily in boroughs on the periphery. There are, however, many potential areas in the remaining parts of the city. Here you can peruse detailed information on the long-term potential of solar energy use in Berlin.

Compared to solar thermal energy, there are far more photovoltaic systems registered in Berlin. As of July 7, 2023, 20,985 systems were in place, with a total installed capacity of around 230 MWp.

As part of updating Berlin's Energy Atlas, the frequency and quality of the data on solar systems, especially those with photovoltaics, will continually be optimised. Since May 2022, a digital version of the solar calculator has also been available as one of the measures of the “Masterplan Solarcity” (SenWEB 2019).

According to the master plan study for the “Masterplan Solarcity Berlin”, the State of Berlin owns 5.4 % of Berlin's buildings. Their roof surfaces account for 8.3 % of the solar potential (SenWEB 2019). On the public buildings in Berlin, there are 691 PV systems with a total installed capacity of 42.1 MWp (as of April 1, 2023).

The set of measures stipulated in the master plan is accompanied by the Berlin solar law. Solar panels have been mandatory since January 1, 2023. The installation and operation of photovoltaic systems have been mandatory since then for new and existing buildings under certain conditions (SenK 2021).