The future of parking: Smart parking with solar carports and solar parking spaces in Germany

Germany is in the midst of its energy transition, and solar energy plays a key role. In addition to the familiar rooftop installations, solar carports and parking lots are becoming increasingly important. They not only offer protection from the elements but also generate clean electricity that can be used directly on-site. But what does the current market development in Germany look like, and what trends are emerging for the future?

Current market overview

The market for solar carports and parking spaces in Germany is dynamic and growing steadily. Although precise figures on market size and the number of installed systems in Germany are difficult to find, various sources indicate strong growth. The global market for solar carports reached a value of approximately €482 million in 2022 and is projected to grow to around €630 million by 2028. Germany is considered one of the most important markets in Europe and likely plays a leading role, as evidenced by the strong interest in photovoltaic systems, government subsidies, and the increasing number of electric vehicles.

Solar carports for private households

Solar carports for private households are enjoying increasing popularity. They offer a space-saving and aesthetically pleasing solution for charging one's own electric vehicle with self-generated solar power. In 2019 alone, 160,000 wooden carports were sold in Germany, offering enormous potential for expansion with photovoltaic systems. Demand for solar carports is steadily rising, especially when combined with charging stations for electric vehicles.

The market for solar carports is diverse and offers solutions for different needs. For example, there are:

• Single-row carports with vehicle arrangement: This variant is suitable for covering a single row of parking spaces.
• Double-row carports with vehicle arrangement: This variant is suitable for covering two rows of parking spaces.
• Double-row carports with double tilt arrangement: This variant offers optimal alignment of the solar modules to the sun.

There are also various options regarding capacity and design:

• Capacity: Solar carports are offered with different power outputs, from less than 500 kW to over 1 MW.
• Design: In terms of design, a distinction is made between T-frame structures and V-frame structures.

Solar parking spaces for businesses and public institutions

Solar parking lots offer the opportunity to use large areas, such as parking lots belonging to companies, supermarkets, or public facilities, for electricity generation. Hamburg's largest solar parking lot, for example, opened in 2021 and supplies the charging stations for electric cars with clean energy. Solar parking lots thus make an important contribution to the decarbonization of transport and to achieving climate goals.

Comparison with other countries in Europe

The market for solar carports and parking lots in Germany is well-developed compared to other European countries. France, in particular, is considered a pioneer in this field. In 2020, France passed a law mandating the installation of solar panels on parking lots with at least 80 spaces. This law aims to accelerate the expansion of solar energy in France and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. While there is no nationwide solar panel mandate for parking lots in Germany, some federal states require solar panels on parking lots with a certain number of spaces. These regulations demonstrate the growing importance of parking lot photovoltaics in Germany and Europe.

Parking lot photovoltaics are also gaining importance in other European countries, such as Great Britain, the Netherlands, and Austria. The European Union has formulated ambitious climate targets as part of its Green Deal and is promoting the expansion of renewable energies, which is having a positive impact on the market for solar carports and parking spaces.

Costs and benefits

Solar carports

The cost of a solar carport varies depending on size, material, and features. On average, prices range from €5,000 to €15,000 for the carport itself, plus the cost of the photovoltaic system (approximately €2,000 per kilowatt-peak output) and, if applicable, a wallbox (€400 to €1,800). Installation costs, which can vary depending on the supplier and the complexity of the project, are also a factor.

To use

• Protection from the elements: Solar carports protect vehicles from sun, rain, snow and hail.
• Electricity generation: Solar carports generate clean electricity that can be used for personal use or fed into the public grid.
• Electromobility: Solar carports enable the charging of electric vehicles with self-generated solar power.
• Property value increase: Solar carports can increase the value of a property.

Solar parking lots

The cost of solar parking facilities depends on the size of the system, the number of parking spaces, and the technology used. Especially in larger projects, installation costs can represent a significant portion of the total cost.

To use

• Space efficiency: Solar parking lots utilize existing parking spaces twice, without requiring additional space.
• Electricity generation: Solar parking lots generate large amounts of clean electricity that can be used for personal use or fed into the public grid.
• Image boost: Solar parking lots demonstrate the commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.
• Reducing the urban heat island effect: Solar parking lots can help lower the temperature in cities.

Market growth forecasts

The outlook for the solar carport and parking space market in Germany is promising. The solar industry expects double-digit growth rates in the installed capacity of photovoltaic systems in the coming years. In the first four months of 2024, newly installed PV capacity on commercial roofs grew by 81 percent compared to the same period of the previous year. The German government has strengthened its subsidy programs for solar installations to further promote investment in renewable energies.

Although the forecasts are positive, there are also factors that could influence market growth. For example, high installation costs and the limited availability of suitable land could slow further market development. On the other hand, technological advances, such as the development of more powerful and cost-effective solar modules, could accelerate growth.

Key players and trends

Xpert.Solar: Pioneer of innovative solar concepts – pacesetter and planner with strong partners

Xpert.Solar, with its industry hub Xpert.Digital, recognized the potential of solar roofs for paved surfaces and parking lots early on. Xpert.Digital was one of the first to publish comprehensive strategies and concepts for the use of renewable energies to provide planning security for industrial companies. Furthermore, Xpert.Solar broadened its focus to include urbanization and smart cities, developing innovative solutions with solar pergolas and green spaces equipped with semi-transparent solar modules.

Multiple use of asphalted surfaces

A particular focus is on the multiple use of paved surfaces with greening potential. Xpert.Solar has developed innovative concepts for this purpose that consider not only energy generation but also ecological aspects. These solutions contribute to improving the urban climate and create multifunctional urban spaces.

Partnership

To implement these ambitious projects, Xpert.Solar has established strategic partnerships with various stakeholders. These collaborations enable the development of comprehensive and practical solutions, ranging from planning to implementation.

Forward-looking approaches

Through its innovative concepts and early focus on future-oriented technologies, Xpert.Solar has established itself as a pacesetter and planner in the solar industry. The combination of technological expertise, strategic partnerships, and a holistic approach to sustainable urban development makes Xpert.Solar a key player in the energy transition and the design of smart urban spaces.

Related to this:

• Commuter solar parking spaces: PV / solar roofing for park & ​​ride facilities – combining mobility and renewable energies
• Urban Planning Retrofit – The Future City from Grey to Green – Solar Parking Lots and Solar Pergolas as a Weapon Against Sealed Surfaces and Heat Islands

Other manufacturers

Among the most important manufacturers of solar carports and parking spaces in Germany are:

• Gutta: Offers solar carports with various cover options and a monitoring app.
• blueparc: Specializing in solar carport solutions for the B2B and B2C markets, with a wide range of products for businesses, municipalities, and private households. The company has already completed over 80 solar park projects in 16 countries.
• AUTAQ: Offers double carports with solar roof and assembly videos for safe installation.
• PILLAR: Provides solutions for solar carports, screw foundations and PV metal structures.
• Geiger Metallbau: Focuses on carports powered by green electricity and offers information on the construction of solar carports.
• IBC SOLAR AG: Offers a wide range of photovoltaic products and solutions, including solar carports. The company also acts as a general contractor for the planning and installation of solar parks.

Installers

The installation of solar carports and parking spaces requires expertise and experience. Some of the installers operating in Germany are:

• blueparc: Offers eParc solar carport systems with a focus on stability and quality.
• Project W: Specializing in photovoltaic systems for carports and enclosure systems. The company offers standardized parking space canopies specifically designed for the installation of solar modules.

operator

In addition to private households and businesses, specialized companies also operate solar parking lots in Germany:

• 7C Solarparken: Focuses on the acquisition, operation, and optimization of solar power plants, primarily in Germany. The company manages a portfolio of over 400 MWp.

Trends and developments

Technological advances

Developments in solar technology are leading to more efficient and durable solar modules that are also suitable for carports and parking lots. For example, new module technologies enable higher energy efficiency and better integration into carport architecture.

Political framework

The German government promotes the expansion of solar energy through subsidies and funding programs. The 2023 amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), for example, provides for an increase in the feed-in tariff for solar power. In some federal states, there is even a solar panel requirement for parking lots above a certain size. These policy measures contribute to increasing the attractiveness of solar carports and parking spaces.

Customer preferences

Customers are increasingly valuing sustainability and environmental awareness. Solar carports and parking spaces are seen as an attractive solution for securing one's own energy supply and contributing to the energy transition. The rising demand for electric vehicles is further reinforcing this trend.

aesthetics

Modern solar carports and parking spaces are characterized by sleek designs and the use of natural materials such as wood. The integration of solar panels into the carport architecture is playing an increasingly important role.

The market for solar carports and parking spaces in Germany is experiencing growth. Increasing demand for renewable energy, government incentives, and growing environmental awareness among customers are all contributing to this positive development. Solar carports and parking spaces offer an attractive way to secure one's own energy supply, promote electromobility, and contribute to the energy transition.

The future of parking in Germany will therefore be increasingly shaped by solar power systems. Innovative technologies, sleek designs, and the integration of charging stations for electric vehicles make solar carports and parking spaces a forward-looking solution for private households, businesses, and public institutions.

For potential users of solar carports and parking spaces, it is important to compare the various offers and consider individual needs. Choosing the right manufacturer, installer, and suitable technology is crucial for the project's success. It is advisable to research applicable funding programs and legal regulations beforehand.

Solar parking spaces are a promising way to generate renewable energy while simultaneously optimizing the limited space available in cities and urban areas. However, there are indeed some challenges that can hinder the implementation of such parking spaces.

One of the biggest hurdles is the high cost and planning effort associated with installing solar panels in parking lots. Not only must the cost of the solar panels themselves be considered, but also the cost of the infrastructure required to connect them to the power grid. Furthermore, the space required for the installation of the solar panels must be precisely planned and coordinated to ensure effective use of the available area.

Another obstacle is bureaucratic hurdles and permitting procedures, which can complicate the installation of solar panels in parking lots. Depending on the region or country, different regulations and rules may apply, further complicating the approval and implementation process.

Despite these challenges, there is high demand for solar parking spaces, as they represent an effective way to promote renewable energy while simultaneously optimizing space utilization in urban areas. With careful planning and collaboration between the stakeholders, the obstacles can be overcome to facilitate the implementation of such parking spaces.

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