What does the new EU solar law mean for buildings?

The new law is set to require solar installations on buildings across the European Union. This means that solar installations must be integrated into building works, and public bodies must retroactively install PV on their buildings, entering into force gradually from 2026.

Will the European Parliament adopt the EU solar standard in 2026?

Jan Osenberg, Senior Policy Advisor at SolarPower Europe, said (he/him): “Today, the European Parliament reached a huge milestone to accelerate renewable deployment, by adopting the EU Solar Standard. From 2026, the EU Solar Standard will require solar rooftop installations across a significant proportion of Europe’s building stock.

What does the EU solar standard mean for buildings?

From 2026, the EU Solar Standard will require solar rooftop installations across a significant proportion of Europe’s building stock. The EU Solar Standard puts the power in citizens’ hands and will enshrine the energy transition into the places where we sleep, work, and live. See also: The four most important energy trends in the building sector

How many solar panels are installed in Europe in 2024?

The EU had around 338 GW solar PV installed in 2024, according to SolarPower Europe, but a big effort is still needed to reach the set target. The directive requires that all new buildings are designed to optimise their solar energy generation.

Do residential buildings need a solar installation?

While existing residential buildings can greatly benefit from adding a solar installation, the directive does not require solar installations on such buildings. EU countries may however set national or local requirements for solar installations, for instance to be eligible for grants for building renovations.

Should Spain introduce a'solar standard'?

Among other things, it is crucial to introduce an ambitious 'solar standard' for roofs and other sealed surfaces, remove unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, and boost citizen-centred schemes such as energy sharing.” Spain has become an European leader for rooftop solar PV, but only at the individual level.