The downside of the solar energy boom: Installed doesn't mean ready for operation – beware of “turnkey systems” – Creative image: Xpert.Digital
Solar power systems in Germany: advantages, costs and unexpected challenges
Solar power systems: Installation and its hidden pitfalls
The boom in solar power systems in Germany is undeniably an important step towards a sustainable energy future. More and more households and businesses are choosing to rely on solar energy to both protect the environment and reduce energy costs in the long term. However, despite the numerous advantages of using solar power systems, there are also some downsides that often only become apparent after installation. In particular, commissioning the systems is frequently more complicated than expected. A key issue here is the promise made by many providers to deliver a "turnkey system"—a term that is often misunderstood in practice.
What does "turnkey plant" mean?
The term "turnkey" suggests that a solar power system is ready for immediate use after installation. In reality, however, this only means that the system is physically installed. It doesn't necessarily mean that it's immediately connected to the grid and operational. This is one of the biggest challenges for many customers: While the installation of the solar panels and inverters is quick and straightforward, the crucial step – connecting to the power grid – is often omitted.
Problems during the commissioning of solar power systems
A common problem with the commissioning of solar power systems is that many installation companies lack the necessary qualifications or licenses to actually connect the system to the grid. This leaves customers with an installed but non-functional system. The main problems are discussed in more detail below:
1. Installation without a master electrician
In Germany, it is generally permitted to install a solar power system without a master electrician's certificate. However, this does not mean that the system can be put into operation immediately. Connection to the public electricity grid must be carried out by a qualified electrician with the necessary certification. Without this inspection by a professional, the system remains unusable – even if it has been installed correctly from a technical standpoint.
This problem occurs particularly frequently with smaller installation companies that, while possessing the know-how to install solar panels, do not have a master electrician on staff. As a result, customers have to find an electrician themselves who is willing to handle the grid connection – which often proves more difficult than expected.
2. Refusal of local electricians
Another obstacle arises from the fact that many local electricians refuse to inspect or connect solar panels installed by third parties to the grid. The reason for this is usually liability and warranty issues. Understandably, electricians don't want to be held responsible for a system whose installation they didn't supervise. Should problems arise or defects be discovered later, they could be held legally liable.
These concerns lead many electricians to prefer only connecting systems they themselves have installed. For the customer, this means additional costs and delays, as they may have to wait several weeks or even months for a qualified electrician.
3. Delays caused by network operators
Even if a qualified electrician has been found and is willing to make the connection, further delays can still occur. The grid operator must approve the installation and ensure that the local power grid is capable of handling the additional feed-in power. However, in many regions of Germany, grid operators are overloaded or the power grid is insufficiently developed.
These structural problems mean that many systems have to wait months for approval – even though they are technically ready for operation. For the customer, this means not only frustration but also financial losses: the expected savings from self-consumption of the generated electricity fail to materialize.
Why local electricians often refuse
The refusal of local electricians has several reasons:
Liability and warranty
As already mentioned, liability plays a central role. Anyone who connects a solar power system to the grid also assumes a certain responsibility for its proper functioning. Even if the customer waives warranty claims, electricians are legally obligated to ensure that the system complies with applicable standards.
Economic reasons
For many electrical companies, simply connecting a third-party system is not economically viable. They often prefer to handle the entire installation process – from assembling the modules to final commissioning – as this allows them to maximize their profit margins.
What can customers do?
To avoid or at least mitigate these problems, customers should take some important steps in advance:
1. Early planning
It is crucial to ensure, even before installation begins, that a qualified electrician is available and ready to inspect and connect the system to the grid. Ideally, this step should be clarified with the installer when the contract is signed.
2. Transparent communication
Clear communication between the plumber and the electrician is essential. Both parties should know exactly who is responsible for which tasks and when each step needs to be carried out. Open communication can prevent many misunderstandings and ensure that everyone involved is on the same page.
3. Alternative solutions
In some cases, it can be advantageous to engage specialized service providers who focus exclusively on the acceptance testing and commissioning of solar power systems. These companies often possess the necessary expertise and certifications, enabling them to work faster and more efficiently than general electrical contractors.
In addition, there are now also providers of complete solutions for solar power systems – from the initial consultation to the final commissioning, including all necessary permits and approvals by the grid operator.
Opportunities and challenges in solar panel installation
The development of solar power systems in Germany undoubtedly offers enormous opportunities for a sustainable energy future. By using renewable energies, both private households and businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and simultaneously save on energy costs in the long term.
However, practical experience repeatedly shows that a successful installation alone is not enough – a smooth commissioning of the system is also crucial. Without early planning and clear agreements between the installer and electrician, delays and additional costs are likely.
Anyone deciding to purchase a solar power system should therefore not only focus on the price or be dazzled by promises like "turnkey" solutions. Rather, it is essential to ensure that all necessary steps for commissioning are planned in a timely manner – only then can the full potential of a solar power system be realized.
Ultimately, it should be noted that the path to owning your own solar power system may involve some hurdles – but those who master these challenges or prevent them through careful planning will be able to benefit from the advantages in the long term.
Suitable for: