Photovoltaics in apartment buildings are one of the most common—and at the same time most misunderstood—applications of self-generated energy in Greece.
Many owners think “it can’t be done,” while others believe unanimity is required. In practice, however, there are more solutions, and they are more flexible than we think.
Many owners think “it can’t be done,” while others believe unanimity is required. In practice, however, there are more solutions, and they are more flexible than we think.
At Solar Home, we design photovoltaic systems for apartment buildings based on the legal framework, technical realities, and actual consumption data.
What counts as a photovoltaic system in an apartment building
A photovoltaic system in an apartment building is any system that:
- is installed in a shared area (usually the rooftop),
- and covers either shared needs, individual apartments, or a combination of the two.
We’re not necessarily talking about one large system for everyone. There are different models, with different decision-making requirements.
What the general assembly decides
The general assembly decides only on the use of the shared area, not on each owner’s consumption.
Specifically, it decides:
- whether the rooftop may be used for photovoltaics,
- whether the system serves shared loads,
- whether there will be a collective investment,
- how the space and the energy produced will be allocated,
- who will be the installation contractor,
- the basic aesthetic and technical implementation requirements.
What the general assembly does NOT decide
The general assembly:
- does not decide how much energy each apartment consumes,
- does not interfere with individual electricity contracts,
- does not choose an energy provider for the owners,
- cannot reject a lawful, technically feasible solution without good reason.
Simply put: it decides on the space, not the meter.
Photovoltaic models for apartment buildings
1. Photovoltaics for shared areas
The system covers:
- lighting,
- elevators,
- pumps,
- garage doors,
- other shared-area consumption.
It is the simplest solution and is usually the easiest to get approved by the general assembly.
2. Photovoltaics for specific owners
One or more owners:
- use part of the rooftop,
- connect the system to their own meter (Net Billing),
- and benefit individually from the energy produced.
Not everyone has to participate, but a clear decision on the use of the space is required.
3. Mixed model (shared areas + apartments)
The most modern and efficient model:
- part of the energy produced covers shared needs,
- while part is allocated to selected apartments.
It requires proper planning and clear rules, but maximizes the benefits.
Net Billing in apartment buildings: what applies
Today, installations in apartment buildings operate under Net Billing.
This means:
- the energy produced is consumed as a priority,
- surplus energy is fed into the grid and compensated,
- and the payback period depends on how well the system matches consumption.
That’s why proper planning is crucial.
The most common mistakes in apartment buildings
- Oversizing “to fit as many panels as possible”
- Not having a clear general assembly decision
- Poor allocation of space
- Unrealistic expectations about the payback period
- Choosing equipment without considering the consumption profile
How we design photovoltaic systems for apartment buildings at Solar Home
At Solar Home:
- we start with real bills,
- we assess the space and shading,
- we recommend realistic capacity, not “as much as possible,”
- we clearly explain what the general assembly does and does not decide,
- we deliver a system with monitoring and room for expansion.
Our goal is not simply to install panels.
Our goal is for the system to work properly and make financial sense.
Our goal is for the system to work properly and make financial sense.
Photovoltaic systems in apartment buildings are possible, as long as:
- there is proper information,
- clear decisions,
- and professional design.
An apartment building is not an obstacle.
It is simply an environment that requires a proper approach.
It is simply an environment that requires a proper approach.
