The “Photovoltaics for Businesses” program is moving toward implementation with significant new measures. Energy storage is being strengthened in the electricity generation mix, with photovoltaics now also being installed in industries and businesses, along with certain changes related to batteries.
Following the revised guide, we now welcome the new program this October. It is estimated that more than 3.000 small, medium-sized and large businesses will join, giving them the opportunity to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. What remains pending is the online platform for submitting applications, which is also in the final stage of development. Once the online platform is complete—which is expected within October—the subsidy program will be launched for professionals, who will be able to submit their applications.
It is worth noting that the total budget for the program “reaches” 160 million euros. Of the total 160 million euros, 60 million is expected to be allocated to small businesses, 60 million euros to small and medium-sized businesses, and 40 million euros to large businesses. The main objective is to reduce emissions CO2 from businesses participating in the program by at least 30% and to replace at least 35% of the electricity the business draws from the grid each year with electricity generated by the photovoltaic system.
Three criteria will be taken into account when evaluating applications:
- The amount of subsidy each business applies for in relation to the total investment amount.
- The amount of subsidy each business applies for in relation to the reduction in its energy bill resulting from the installation of photovoltaic and battery systems.
- How much energy costs contribute to the operating expenses of the business applying to join the program.
It is recalled that the Ministry of Energy had initially planned to subsidize zero feed-in solar systems as well, but the program was ultimately redesigned, and companies will therefore receive subsidies exclusively for battery installations. Batteries will allow professionals to significantly reduce their electricity bills, as they will draw energy from the grid during midday hours.
This is also when wholesale prices are low. The aim is to use the battery to supply electricity from stored energy during the hours when the DAM is more expensive (e.g., just after sunset). The eligible businesses receiving subsidies are expected to help achieve the target of installing a portfolio of 500 – 600 megawatts.
It is worth noting that, for a professional to receive a subsidy under the “Photovoltaics for Businesses” program, a necessary condition is that no more than 25% of their electricity needs are met by the grid. The remaining 75% must come from a “green” energy source. This is because, under the European Commission’s requirements, European programs must help reduce beneficiaries’ carbon footprints by at least 30%. To achieve this percentage, the solution lies in net billing and virtual net billing, since installing a photovoltaic system for self-generation that is not subsidized by the program is essential.
Source: Liberal
Source: Liberal
