Incentives: Solar Thermal Systems

In Germany the investment for solar thermal systems is supported by governmental incentives.

Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA)

The government grants for example a sum of 210€ for each square meter of installed solar collector area used for solar cooling. This is a support for installations of 20 to 40m², each square meter more is supported with extra 45€. You will find more detailed Information on the website of the BAFA.

Reconstruction Loan Corporation (KfW)

In addition, for solar energy projects larger than 40m², loans can be granted at the KfW with very low interest.

German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMU)

The BMU is offering Solarthermie2000plus, a support programm for long term research activities of solar thermal systems working in a low temperature range.

The development, installation and testing of large scale projects with solar collectors covering areas of at least 100m² can be supported for a period of five to eight years. Up to 50% of the investments can be repaid by the BMU.

For pilot projects developing new technology standards the rate can be even higher. This program is addressed to owners of private or commercial real estate, research institutes and companies.

Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU)

The DBU is one of Europe's largest foundations and promotes innovative and exemplary environmental projects. Pilot- and demonstration projects of solar thermal systems, especially cooling systems can be supported by the DBU. Particularly co-operation projects between small and medium-sized enterprises and research institutions are encouraged to apply.

 

Further information of financing support can be found at Solarserver.de, in the BMU-brochure (including incentives of the European Union) or in the following data bank: Förderdatenbank des Bundesministeriums für Wirtschaft und Technologie.

For information about incentives, renewable energy funds and other financing support for solar thermal systems in other countries refer to the local ministry for environment respectively.