Many entrepreneurs are considering installing a photovoltaic system on their company roofs.

The gradual lowering of costs for the installation of photovoltaic systems over the years has turned this solution into an extremely profitable investment. In today's environment, where the search for efficient and environmentally friendly solutions is increasingly a priority, installing a photovoltaic system on a company roof is a popular choice for those wishing to renovate their business, reduce their impact on the environment and, at the same time, saving on bills.

However, it should be emphasised that the assessment of an investment in a photovoltaic system should not be limited to the initial installation cost. Many companies often overlook the operational and maintenance costs that can arise throughout the year. It is crucial to realise that, in addition to the initial expense of purchasing and installing the system, there are ongoing costs associated with cleaning and running the system over time.

These costs should be carefully evaluated and considered in the overall investment analysis. This is the only way to obtain a complete and accurate view of the economic and environmental benefits that a photovoltaic system can offer. Let's make an assessment together and find a way to save on the running costs of solar panels throughout the year.

How much does a photovoltaic system cost?

Until a decade ago, the installation of a medium-sized photovoltaic system, such as a 3 kW system, was considered an excessively expensive investment, with costs ranging between 28,000 and 30,000 euro. Despite the potential savings on the energy bill, the payback period of the investment was prohibitive, also considering the average life of the installation, estimated at around 25 years.

In order to encourage the adoption of photovoltaic systems, the the State Conto Energia campaign. The GSE (Gestore dei Servizi Energetici), a body affiliated to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, monitored energy production and contributed to the financing of the plant by paying an incentive tariff for each kWh produced, regardless of self-consumption or energy fed into the grid. This incentive, which initially amounted to €0.49 per kWp produced, favoured the spread of numerous installations, the emergence of new businesses and the development of technical skills in the sector. However, incentives for photovoltaics were limited to a period of eight years and their size gradually decreased over time as competition in the market increased.

Solar panels cost less today

Beginning in 2017, there has been a steady decrease in the cost of photovoltaic panels, a trend that has continued to the present day, with prospects of a further decline in the coming years. Currently, the cost of a photovoltaic system ranges from 2,500 to 3,500 euros per kWp of installed power. Considering that a typical household requires an installation of at least 3 kW, it is possible to accurately estimate the average cost of a photovoltaic installation. This price variation depends on the quality of the materials used, the origin of the components, the technology employed, as well as the size of the system and the company commissioned for the installation.

Both monocrystalline and polycrystalline silicon photovoltaic panels have dropped in price, although the former are slightly more expensive. Resistance and energy efficiency further influence the final price, as do installation costs. To summarise, considering a 50% tax rebate, a 3 kWp photovoltaic system, producing approximately 3,000-4,500 kWh per year, has an average cost of between €5,000 and €7,000.

But, as we will see at the end of the article, there is an effective way to save on this cost.

Annual cost of a solar system

The installation of a photovoltaic system on a company roof involves not only initial costs for purchase and installation, but also recurring costs for maintenance and optimisation of efficiency over the years.

Initially, we said, the cost of the system varies depending on the desired power output and the quality of the materials used. Considering an average-sized, 3 kWp system, the average cost ranges between 7,500 and 10,500 euros, taking into account indicative prices of 2,500-3,500 euros per kWp. Subsequently, to improve the efficiency of the system, elements such as yield optimisers, which increase the energy output of the 5-10%, and storage systems, to store energy not used during the day for use at night. These elements may entail an additional cost of around 1,000-2,000 Euros per element..

Running costs of a solar plant

As far as annual running costs are concerned, it is necessary to consider:

1. Maintenance costs, i.e. periodic cleaning to maintain optimal efficiency. Even if maintenance is minimal, it is advisable to budget approximately 100-200 euro per year for regular cleaning and checking of the system
2. Insurance, to protect the system from damaging events, such as hail damage or theft. Insurance policies for photovoltaic systems have an average annual cost of around 50-100 euro
3. Any repair or replacement work, even if rare. It is prudent to consider an annual reserve fund of around EUR 100-200 to deal with unforeseen events.

In total, taking into account initial installation costs and annual operation and maintenance charges, the total annual cost for an average 3 kWp photovoltaic system is around 500-800 euros. This estimate takes into account Italian trends and common practices in the industry. It is important to consider that, despite these costs, an investment in a photovoltaic system continues to provide significant energy savings and an attractive return in the medium to long term.

Photovoltaic rental: a convenient choice for companies

Despite the fact that the costs of solar panels have fallen significantly in recent years, The installation and maintenance of a photovoltaic system still entails costs to be paid. However, for companies wishing to adopt sustainable energy solutions without the upfront costs, the rental of a photovoltaic system on the company roof can be an attractive option.

With the rental model proposed by Heiwit, companies can benefit from solar energy without having to invest directly in the purchase and installation of the system. We undertake to cover all costs associated with the implementation of the photovoltaic system, including the fee for the 30-year surface right and the power purchase agreement for the sale of the energy produced by the system. After 5 years, the property owner also has the option of purchasing the system at a favourable price.. This approach not only enables companies to adopt a clean energy source, but also promotes green economic sustainability.

Heiwit aims to make investments in renewable energy competitive and even more profitable than investments in gas, coal or oil-based plants. To achieve this goal, we are committed to highly optimised photovoltaic systems that maximise efficiency and reduce costs. This advanced technology not only promotes greater environmental sustainability, but also offers significant cost savings for companies, thus contributing significantly to the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy.

Don't hesitate: contact us to find out more!