In the early months of 2024, the government is set to open applications for its project, "Photovoltaics for All." Aimed at enabling small to medium-sized households to install solar panels without initial capital outlay, this initiative has been included in a 17-measure support package approved by the Ministerial Council. This move is seen as a crucial step in assisting households combat rising energy costs.

Officials from the Ministry of Commerce have revealed that while final details of the plan are still being ironed out, it primarily targets residences with an annual consumption threshold set at 1,600 kilowatt-hours, equating to a photovoltaic system capacity of up to 4.2 kilowatts. Notably, the program entails an initial grant of €1,000, followed by repayments for the remaining system cost at €150, incorporated into the AHK utility bills.

It's envisaged that applicants would first receive a pre-approval from the fund management committee before proceeding with the solar installation company. Efforts are underway to negotiate a cap on the solar system prices with suppliers, given the current range of €5,000 to €6,000 per system. This aims to prevent potential inflationary pressures due to expected demand spikes. With a program budget of €30 million, approximately 6,000 applications are anticipated to be covered.

Moreover, in collaboration with AHK, the Ministry has significantly reduced the approval timeframe to four months. Also, an online platform is being developed to cater to the increased applications of the new plan.

Market insiders believe there's adequate capacity to meet this surge in demand, with several solar supply and installation firms ready to step in. As of now, no supply shortages are foreseen.

Addressing network stability, it's been highlighted that there's an existing agreement with the Transmission System Operator and the Distribution System Operator to implement a remote control system (ripple control) to ensure the safety of the electrical network.

The new initiative will operate alongside two existing grant programs. The first program offers a €1,500 grant for those who install a system using their own money and provides an added bonus for roof insulation investments. The second caters to vulnerable groups, covering the full cost of the system and giving an additional bonus for roof insulation. However, there's a lingering question: Will the reduced €1,000 grant deter potential beneficiaries, who can afford a photovoltaic system and qualify for a €1,500 grant, from choosing the "Photovoltaics for All" initiative? This could potentially deny less financially equipped households the chance to benefit from the program.